Surgery for cosmetic reasons alone is not usually available on the NHS.
Cosmetic surgery
Cosmetic surgery means an operation that changes the appearance of someone’s features to achieve what they think is more desirable. It’s surgery that someone chooses to have. Features that can be changed by cosmetic surgery include:
- skin colour
- skin texture
- the structure or position of body parts, such as the nose
Cosmetic surgery is not the same as plastic surgery.
Plastic surgery
Plastic surgery is carried out to repair and reconstruct damaged skin and tissue, for example as a result of:
- a condition that’s present from birth (congenital)
- a condition that develops later in life
- an injury
Plastic surgery can also improve the skin’s appearance but this is a secondary aim.
Cosmetic surgery on the NHS
In rare cases, cosmetic surgery may be provided on the NHS if it’s required to protect a person’s health. For example, the NHS might pay for:
- a breast reduction operation if the weight of a woman's breasts are causing her back problems
- nose reshaping (rhinoplasty) if someone has breathing problems
To qualify for surgery on the NHS, you must meet specific guidelines set out by your local primary care trust (PCT).
Getting advice about cosmetic surgery
If you’re thinking about having cosmetic surgery, you should see your GP. They can discuss the options with you and advise you about the possibility of treatment on the NHS.
If your GP thinks you may be suitable for NHS treatment, they will refer you to a consultant who will decide whether cosmetic surgery on the NHS is appropriate. Before they decide, they may ask you to have a psychological assessment.
The Health A-Z has more information about the availability of cosmetic surgery.
Private cosmetic surgery
If you're considering cosmetic surgery, make sure you know what's involved before you decide. If you decide to pay for cosmetic surgery privately, find out all you can about:
- the procedure
- the clinic or company offering it, and
- the surgeon
All private companies who provide cosmetic surgery must register every year with the Care Quality Commission.
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Read the answers to more questions about NHS services and treatments.
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