Is it Realistic to Expect Perfection from my Plastic Surgery?
Simply put no, it’s not realistic to expect perfection from plastic surgery — but it is realistic to expect a noticeable, natural-looking improvement when working with a qualified and experienced surgeon such as Antony Fitton.
Here’s why:
A good surgeon will tell you what’s medically safe and aesthetically appropriate – and they’ll never promise perfection.
Plastic Surgery Enhances, It Doesn’t Perfect
Plastic surgery is an art informed by science. While it can:
- Refine features
- Restore balance
- Improve symmetry
- Boost self-confidence
…it can’t deliver absolute “perfection,” which is often subjective and influenced by trends, personal bias, or social media filters.
Every Body Is Unique
Your skin type, healing response, bone structure, and overall health all affect results. Remember, no two patients will have exactly the same outcome — even with the same procedure.
Expectation vs. Reality
It’s essential to:
- Discuss your goals honestly with Mr Fitton.
- Ask what is realistically achievable in your case.
- View before-and-after photos of similar patients to better understand likely outcomes.
A good surgeon will tell you what’s medically safe and aesthetically appropriate – and they’ll never promise perfection.
What You Can Expect
- A natural improvement that enhances your appearance
- Improved confidence in how you look
- A result that is proportional and balanced
- Scars that fade over time, but may not disappear entirely
Be Wary If:
- A clinic guarantees “perfect” or “celebrity-style” results
- You’re promised no risks or immediate transformation
- The focus is more on sales tactics than your individual care
Realistic Expectations = Better Satisfaction
Studies show patients who go into surgery with realistic goals and trust in the process tend to be happier with their results, both emotionally and physically.
How do I choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon?
Choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon is one of the most important steps in ensuring your safety and achieving your desired results. Here’s a practical and thorough guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Check Credentials
Board Certification: In the UK, look for surgeons registered with the
- General Medical Council (GMC) and who hold the
- FRCS(Plast) qualification – a sign of advanced training in plastic surgery.
Professional Memberships: Look for membership in reputable organisations like:
- BAAPS – British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
- BAPRAS – British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons
2. Review Experience and Specialisation
- Ask how many years they’ve been practising specifically in plastic surgery.
- Enquire about their experience in the specific procedure you’re considering (e.g. facelift, breast augmentation, tummy tuck).
- Check whether they work in both NHS and private sectors – many of the top UK surgeons do both.
3. Assess Before-and-After Results
- Reputable surgeons provide before-and-after galleries of real patients.
- Look for patients with similar body types or facial features to yours to gauge likely outcomes.
- Ask to see unretouched images during your consultation.
4. Read Patient Reviews and Testimonials
- Use platforms like Doctify, Top Doctors, or Google Reviews.
- Look for consistent feedback about the surgeon’s:
- Communication style
- Aftercare
- Results and professionalism
5. Have a Consultation – Ask the Right Questions
Use your consultation to assess not just the surgeon’s knowledge, but also whether you feel listened to and understood. Ask:
- What are the risks and complications?
- What’s the typical recovery like?
- What results can I realistically expect?
- What happens if I’m not happy with the results?
- Who will look after me post-surgery?
6. Verify Hospital or Clinic Standards
- Choose a CQC-registered (Care Quality Commission) facility.
- Ask who performs your pre-op assessments, anaesthesia, and post-op care.
- Check that the surgical facility follows strict hygiene, safety, and emergency protocols.
7. Avoid Red Flags
- No visible credentials or vague responses
- Pressure to book quickly or pay up front
- Unrealistic promises or ‘too good to be true’ pricing
- Inadequate aftercare or follow-up
8. Trust Your Gut
- You should feel respected, safe, and well-informed throughout the process.
- If you feel unsure or rushed, it’s absolutely okay to seek a second opinion.
Bonus Tip:
If you’re looking in the South West UK, surgeons like Antony Fitton (FRCS Plast) are example of highly qualified, specialist consultants working privately.
If you’re looking in the South West UK, surgeons like Antony Fitton (FRCS Plast) are example of highly qualified, specialist consultants working privately.
Use this checklist to help guide your plastic surgery consultation with Antony Fitton. It will ensure you ask the right questions, evaluate his qualifications, and make an informed decision.
Plastic surgery can be a life-changing decision, offering both cosmetic and functional benefits.
However, it is crucial to have accurate information and realistic expectations. Consulting with a certified and experienced plastic surgeon is the best course of action to ensure you receive personalised advice and clear answers to any queries.
– Educate Yourself: Research procedures thoroughly.
– Prepare for Recovery: Understand the time and effort needed for healing.
– Prioritise Your Safety: Choose reputable clinics and experienced professionals.
Ultimately, informed decision-making plays a vital role in achieving satisfactory results in any cosmetic procedure.
For a no-obligation quote
For a no-obligation quote, tailored specifically to you, please book in for your consultation with Mr Fitton. Your requirements will be discussed in full confidence in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Following your consultation, the price you are quoted includes everything and there are no extra or hidden costs. Advice, treatment and aftercare are all part of our package to ensure your experience is positive from beginning to end.
About your Plastic Surgeon: Mr Antony Fitton
MB, BS(hons)., MD., FRCS(eng)., FRCS(plast).
Mr Antony Fitton qualified at the Royal London Hospital in 1989 with distinction in Surgery. He holds a MB, BS(Hons.), MD., FRCS(Eng.), FRCS(Plast.) (Fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons).
He is a member of BAPRAS (British Association for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons), BAAPS (British Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), BSSH (British Society for Surgery of the Hand).
Mr Fitton has received the Paton & Masser Award and the CM Matthews Award from the Royal College of Surgeons of England or his research in nerve injury.
Mr Fitton is licensed as Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon by the GMC.
- 0% Finance Available
- Consultations and treatments are available at either the Nuffield Health Hospital, Plymouth or the Duchy Hospital, Truro
- Care Quality Commission Regulated
- GMC Specialist Registered Surgeon
- BAPRAS, BAAPS and BSSH member
- Registered MD
Our Services
Our appearance has an impact on how others perceive us. We are experts in creating an improved version of you. Click on a procedure below for more information.
Body surgery (or contouring) can involve all or one of the following, with prime focus on areas such as the buttocks, tummy, thighs, arms, and breasts. Click on the links below for more information.
There are several different types of hand surgery but all aim to restore functionality while making the hand look as normal as possible. Click on the links below for more information.
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