Before Vaser liposuction, ask your surgeon about their specialist qualifications, where the surgery will take place, whether Vaser is the right technique for your body, what result is realistic, what recovery involves and what happens if you need further treatment. Clear, specific answers to these questions are a good sign; vague reassurance or pressure to book is not.
Questions about the surgeon
Start by confirming who will actually operate and what their training is.
- Are you on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery?: a good answer is a straightforward yes, with a GMC number you can check online.
- What are your surgical qualifications?: look for FRCS (Plast), the specialist exit qualification in plastic surgery in the UK.
- Which professional bodies are you a member of?: membership of BAAPS or BAPRAS indicates a commitment to standards in aesthetic and plastic surgery.
- How often do you perform Vaser liposuction?: the surgeon should describe regular experience with the technique and be able to show representative before and after photographs at consultation.
- Will you perform the whole operation?: you should know whether the consultant operates personally.
Questions about the procedure
- Is Vaser the best option for me, or would another approach suit me better?: an honest surgeon will explain alternatives such as traditional liposuction or a tummy tuck if skin is loose.
- How many areas do you recommend, and why?: the answer should be based on your anatomy and goals, not on upselling.
- Will the surgery be under general or local anaesthetic?: expect a clear explanation of the anaesthetic and who administers it.
- How much fat can safely be removed?: the surgeon should talk about safe limits relative to your body size.
- Do you recommend high-definition work in my case?: a careful surgeon will explain when definition would look natural and when a smoother contour is wiser.
Questions about the hospital
- Where will my operation take place?: the answer should be a CQC-registered hospital with full theatre facilities and overnight beds if needed.
- Who will look after me after surgery?: you want to hear about nursing staff, a consultant anaesthetist and a clear line of contact.
- What happens in an emergency?: the hospital should have protocols and access to critical care support.
Questions about results and risks
Ask what a realistic outcome looks like for someone with your build, how long it takes to see it, and what the main risks are in your case. A trustworthy surgeon will discuss irregularities, seroma, numbness, skin laxity, thermal injury and blood clots openly and explain how they reduce them. Be cautious of anyone who implies risks are negligible or promises a specific look. The Vaser risks guide covers these in detail.
Questions about recovery and aftercare
- How long will recovery keep me off work?: you should get a realistic range for your job.
- How long is a garment worn, and is it included?: typically around six weeks; ask whether the first garment is part of the price.
- How many follow-up appointments are included?: a clear schedule of routine reviews is a good sign.
- Who should be contacted out of hours?: there should be a named route for urgent concerns.
The recovery guide can help you compare answers.
Questions about cost and revision
Ask for a written quote that lists what is included, whether the consultation fee is separate, and what the policy is if a touch-up is needed. With Mr Nassab, Vaser starts from £8,000 for one area and £9,000 for two, including surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital, garment and routine follow-up; the £150 consultation is separate. See the cost guide.
Warning signs during a consultation
Be wary of time-limited discounts, pressure to pay a deposit on the day, not meeting the operating surgeon until surgery, or a lack of clear aftercare. You should feel free to take time to think and to ask for a second consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is worth bringing to a consultation?
Bring a list of your medications, details of any previous surgery and your written questions. Some patients bring a friend or relative for support.
Is it normal to have a second consultation?
Yes. Many people find a second appointment helpful to go over details before deciding.
How can a surgeon’s registration be checked?
You can search the GMC online register using the surgeon’s name or GMC number to confirm specialist registration in plastic surgery.
Is it reasonable to ask for photographs of previous results?
Yes. It is reasonable to ask to see representative photographs at consultation, bearing in mind every patient is different.
What if a question is forgotten on the day?
You can contact the team after your consultation with further questions. It is better to clarify everything before booking than to feel uncertain on the day of surgery, and a follow-up conversation can usually be arranged.
