Can I Get Cosmetic Surgery on the NHS?

Originally written by Wendy Sloane, updated by the editorial team on 6th July 2026

Most people who consider cosmetic surgery have to pay for it themselves. The NHS does not routinely fund procedures carried out purely to improve appearance. However, there are circumstances where the health service will cover some types of surgery, particularly when physical features cause significant psychological distress or affect how the body functions.

The basic rule for NHS funding

The NHS draws a clear line between cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery. Cosmetic procedures are those done solely to change appearance when there is no medical need. Reconstructive surgery corrects problems caused by birth defects, illness, injury or previous medical treatment.

Reconstructive procedures are generally funded because they address a functional or medical issue. Cosmetic procedures, on the other hand, are not usually available on the NHS. The NHS prioritises treatments based on medical necessity rather than personal preference.

That said, the boundaries are not always rigid. Some procedures sit somewhere between the two categories, and decisions often depend on individual circumstances and local policies.

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When the NHS may fund cosmetic procedures

In certain cases, the NHS will consider funding surgery that might otherwise be classed as cosmetic. This typically happens when a physical feature causes serious psychological harm or affects daily functioning.

You would usually need to demonstrate that the issue has an assessed impact on your mental health. This often involves assessments by more than one professional. Your GP would refer you to a plastic surgeon, and you may also need to see a psychiatrist, psychologist or another specialist to evaluate the psychological impact.

Each local Clinical Commissioning Group sets its own policies on which procedures it will fund and under what conditions. What qualifies in one area may not qualify in another, so the process can vary depending on where you live. Your GP can advise on the criteria that apply locally.

Procedures sometimes funded by the NHS include breast reduction when large breasts cause back pain or other physical problems, breast reconstruction after mastectomy, surgery to correct significant asymmetry or congenital abnormalities, removal of excess skin after major weight loss where it causes functional issues or recurrent skin infections, and rhinoplasty when breathing is affected. Each of these requires meeting specific clinical and psychological criteria before funding is approved.

Even when a procedure is technically eligible, there may be waiting lists and additional requirements. Approval is not guaranteed.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

How to start the process

If you believe you have a case for NHS funding, the first step is to speak with your GP. They can assess whether a referral is appropriate and explain what evidence you might need to provide.

Be prepared for the process to take time, often several months from initial referral to final decision. Referrals typically go through your local Clinical Commissioning Group, and you may need to attend multiple appointments before a decision is made. In some cases, a panel will review your application.

In the event of an application rejection, there is an established appeals process available. Your GP or the hospital team should be able to explain how this works in your area.

Standards and safety

Plastic surgeons working within the NHS are required to be fully qualified and registered with the General Medical Council. Many are also members of professional bodies such as the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons or the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. These organisations set standards for training and practice.

If you do choose to have cosmetic surgery privately, it is worth checking that your surgeon is on the GMC specialist register for plastic surgery. The Care Quality Commission regulates clinics in England, and equivalent bodies operate in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

For the most current information on NHS eligibility and local policies, speak to your GP or visit the NHS website directly.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Cosmetic Surgery Cost Estimator lets you get a realistic idea of what a cosmetic procedure costs in the UK, what the price usually includes, and the questions to ask before you book. Try it now →

71 questions

Ask Explore Cosmetic Surgery a Question

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 06/07/2026 at 11:01 am

@Thomo That's frustrating, especially when it affects something as everyday as shaving. The NHS will usually only remove a lesion for free if it's causing genuine medical problems or is suspected to be cancerous, not for cosmetic reasons, which is likely why your GP said no. It might be worth asking for a second opinion, or requesting a dermatology referral to confirm it's benign. Otherwise a private removal by a GP or dermatologist is often cheaper than people expect, sometimes around £150 to £300 depending on the type.

Thomo 06/07/2026 at 10:17 am

I have a lesion on my chin, I have been told by my Doctor that I can not have it removed as it is above the neck line, It is for me unsightly.
I find it difficult shaving, Also I have grown a goatee to hide it.
Thank you for listening.

Jen 25/11/2019 at 10:14 pm

Hi I'm nearly sixty and when I was 15 I had my appendix removed I was left with a very thick scar and it has a dent one end I also have a thick lump of skin just above it that hangs over and juts out and my clothes don't look right I cant wear any close fitting clothes and I've just got with a new partner and I wont let him see this ugly scar its affected me my whole life and didnt think anything could be done but I'm told that maybe there is this would be life changing for me please tell me I could have this corrected as I feel I was butchered at 15 and have had this disfigurement all my life thank you

Nosey 14/10/2019 at 3:46 pm

I work as a quality manager and conduct many external and internal audits and with this role I get to meet many people at various levels of organisations.

I have on a number of occasions heard people in the office refer to me as being nosey person and having a big nose to go with the job and at first it didn't worry me but more recently it has played on my mind to the extent that I want to hand my notice in as I feel I can not longer interview people without thinking they are looking at my nose.

Is there anything that can be done to help me on the NHS.

Bighuddslad621 01/06/2019 at 12:02 am

Male 37yr old ex opiate addict . And my problem is my teeth. Even b3fore my drug abuse I was always scared of the dentist because the injection to numb my mouth never works local anasthitc doesnt work . I had a tooth extracted and I could feel every bit of it so since then I've been afraid to go to the dentist .. I've recently overcome my battle with narcotics and I'm pleased to say that part of my life is over.. could I just say I've never commited any crimes to fund my drug habit I worked hard and my wage went all on drugs . I was wondering if their is any kind of funding or if I could get dental treatment paid for on the nhs like caps or veneers. I don't want every tooth done just the visible ones . I'm aware people reading this will just think I don't deserve the tax payers money to correct my smile which I've ruined my self with drugs and I'd agree with you on not proud of what I once was but I've turned my life around now and it was so hard . I'd be willing to pay for the procedure if I could have it in instalments . Basically I'm just wondering if I could get any funding or if I could get the work done on the nhs .. it upsets me daily that I've got no confidence to smile because of my teeth and the fact can't enjoy sobriaty and show that I'm happy from what I've overcome because of my awful smile I really would do anything to be able to have my smile back I'd climb any mountain id give my left arm . I'm such a nice person who helps every one I'm all so a carer for my sick parents and all o want is to be able to smile again can anyone help me please

Pixie 26/03/2019 at 10:05 pm

Hi, I was diagnosed with Scoliosis at the age of 12 and had corrective surgery about a year later, my problem is my breast, my right one is almost under my arm now and it's very depressing to have to keep moving it over just to put in to my bra which doesn't fit properly on that side as my right one is a full cup size smaller than the left which is also very depressing. I was wondering if I could get something done on the NHS to fix this.

Bina 04/02/2019 at 9:54 am

Hi there,

I am a female, 34years old have no kids and no husband and have issues with my both bumb cheeks. When I was kid (11years old) I got very ill with malaria during the family holidays in Africa (Sao tome and Principe) to treat that I had to get jubs on my both bumb checks. The medication I was having was expired what caused me to have horrible inflamation on the are what took me almost 6 months to heal and seat again.
After healing I grew up normaly but my bumb got stuck on my 11 years size at least on that part. Because of that bad medication I had very but reaction such sore all over my bodywhat caused it to get covered in black spots what I been treat with chemical peel at home, taking al the risk as I hate my body so much.
I feel so frustrate and tired of find so many excuses to don't ever use bikini, short, skirt or dress with thigs and tell my friends that I hate beach, pool and summer.

Please advise is there anthing I can do?

Thank you for reading this.

Livv 02/02/2019 at 12:57 pm

I’m 15 years old and I’ve all ways struggled with a big forehead. I’d see people walk past me laughing I I instantly knew what they was laughing at . I’ve reacently looked into forehead reduction but they price is so high where I know my parents can’t afford it ... I guess I’m wondering if they is anything like forehead reduction on the NHS??

Grace 29/01/2019 at 2:35 am

I had my daughter 12 years ago, I had to have an emergency c-section. The incision failed to heal properly and then I had secondary infections in the wound. My stomach hangs down. The skin gets extremely sore and I have skin infections within the fold. I go to the doctors regularly for creams ect for the infections. I wash with hibi scrub. One doctor advised that I "strap it up with gaffa tape" as then air would get to the csection area that keeps getting sore. I have been to my doctors and have begged to be referred, but for them to refuse. I have also had another emergency operation leaving scarring around my belly button and my c section scar again, making the situation worse. I'm 35 and it inhibits my relationships- I.e I'm not in one as it affects my confidence incredibly. Any advice on how I can pursue this?

JDevon 20/01/2019 at 12:09 am

I have one calf considerably larger than the the other due to being born with a club foot which has affected my confidence my whole life, I would love to have corrective surgery and wondered if calf augmentation might be available on the NHS for me?

PinKB Editor 17/07/2018 at 2:57 pm

@nightowl87 - I know you don't want to hear this, but you have a perfect model's figure, tall, flat-chested and skinny. So many people would die for such a figure. I had no chest either when I was younger, but honestly as you get older you will be so, so thankful as I am. Large boobs make women look matronly and fat as they get older. So, you should be proud of what you have and flaunt it. There are so many women that would kill for your kind of figure.

Keirabi Editor 18/01/2018 at 10:48 am

@MuFfIn - unless you can afford to pay for these operations yourself you'd have to go to your docs to see if you have a valid reason. I'm so sorry you have been bullied, that is so unfair. Be proud of yourself though and hold your head up high. Beauty really does come from within and no matter what your outside looks like, people will always see the beauty in someone who is confident with their flaws

MuFfIn 17/01/2018 at 5:06 pm

Hi..I'm currently 16 years old, soon to be turning 17 in April, and over the past couple of years (Possibly 3-4) I've noticed a lot of flaws about myself that have ended up leading to a lot of self confidence problems and such..a lot of these have lead to depression episodes, anxiety, stress and so on. One of the biggest problems is my nose. I despise it with every ounce of myself. I won't lie, but even from my point of view, it's big, a big slant with a bump directly in the middle, which only makes it bigger. My nostrils aren't the smallest. When it comes to pictures, finding a partner, going out with friends, I do what I can't to avoid them by all means necessary (I currently have a partner in long distance relationship, but I refuse to show all of my face due to the fear of him thinking or judging me in any negative way. which is what leads to most of my anxiety half of the time.) There have been cases of where I'd sat alone and cried for hours on end. Bullying was another issue, there were a lot of name callings in the past. Ugly, disgusting, freak, even people pointing out the things I wish they never had, especially with how judgemental people are these days upon appearance..I cover my face all the time. And there are very few people I will actually be willing to show my full face to. This nose issue isn't only because of self consciousness, I've noticed I've the years also that I'm only able to breathe through one nostril at a time, and I suffer from asthma and a LOT of colds/coughs, which can end up putting pressure on my lungs when it's all together, having to put extra energy in breathing properly and triggering my asthma at times.

Something else, would be my different sized breasts. It's hard to tell how noticeable it is. But that also worries me.. Do people think I'm weird? Will I be considered even more of a freak because of it? Does it make me inferior to all other women who have a chance? It's very hard to find nice clothes that fit without making it stand out.. Especially underwear and the sort.

I'm wanting to know how possible it is to get these sorted out.. Even if it were just the one. And how would I do it..?

Jen 05/01/2018 at 11:04 pm

Hi, I have lost 13 stone of weight and I have dropped 8 dress sizes through a strict diet and exercise and I have kept it off for nearly 2 years .I'm only 28 and I have been left with alot of loose skin on my tummy arms and legs. I have to wear a special body suit everyday under my clothes to try to hide it, it's causing me to be miserable and very self conscious and it is also very difficult to exercise without strapping it down. Is there anything I can do? I'm scared to go to my GP incase i wont get help and I know I'm going to be devastated. It's making me miserable.

Enariell 24/12/2017 at 1:50 am

Hi,
I've been having severe confidence issues with the shape of my jaw. It is square shaped and I find it unflattering to the point that I won't leave the house at times due to heightened sense of low self esteem. I can't take regular pictures of myself without feeling insecure about the way it is shaped. I have read about procedures in changing the shape of the jaw in order to make it appear more feminine. Is this procedure available on the NHS, given that I am referred by my GP?

KelLouXo 11/11/2017 at 10:13 pm

Hello there,

I’d like to start by saying that I am an extremely anxious 24 year old woman. I have had hairline issues since I can remember, I never wear it up and have tried numerous hair styles wearing my hair down but I just can’t hide it. I never take pictures because I’m that embarrassed about it, I rarely get out of the house and sometimes ring in sick to work if I’m having a bad anxiety/depression day. The first thing I see when I see/meet someone is their hairline and I immediately feel anxious/jealous. I refuse to go swimming because it shows my hairline. My boyfriend has never seen me with wet hair or with my hair up because it’s just so embarrassing. Is there anything at all possible on the NHS of having a forehead reduction surgery? This is my last resort as I can’t afford the surgery on my own.

Thank you so much in advance.

Djm 24/10/2017 at 9:42 pm

My fave is different on one side to other could they help me ive suffered terribly from depression self harm due to it and avoidied all pictures since i was 6

nina 11/10/2017 at 12:48 am

I have a real problem with my teeth or rather my lack off. .I suppose to start with I have always had a terrible fear of the dentist which I got as a child from our butcher of a school dentist. .This dentist has a fb page full of people's horror stories and I don't remember having that fear before then..as time went on that fear meant that I always had to get work carried out under sedation which was becoming harder..However I found a really nice dentist who was willing to give sedation quite freely and I really liked him. .I was 19 when I first went to him with pain from my front tooth which I had broken. .He was very reassuring and said don't worry I won't sort it out and give you a lovely smile back..so the following day I went back was put to sleep and woke to what I now know was 6 temporary front teeth and two weeks later a permanent bridge was fitted. .I was young, frightened and naive and even though I wondered why he had done that and not understanding the consequences I still didn't ask why..That dentist ended up committing suicide in his practice as he had been found guilty of misconduct for claiming for work he hadn't carried out. .I also later found out that he had other problems with drink and a lot of debt. .very sad really but I had always thought he carried out so much work on me on teeth that I wasn't aware had any problems..years later while at a new dentist they said they couldn't believe he did that. .They looked at my records and said there was no reason for that work and that I would start losing all those front teeth. .I can't tell you the shock. .I didn't realise the type of work it entailed and that they had a shelf life. .also serious gum disease had gotten in under the gums and spread round the gum. .Also did just as they said I started loosing my teeth. .At first I had partial denture..devastating for me. .but then eventually all the teeth have gone and the struggle of the full denture has left me hardly able to eat which has left me very underweight with worsening symptoms of my diverticular disease..but mostly for me it is the psychological effect. .It feels disgusting to me, I try not to speak to people close up..I certainly don't kiss anyone and it has destroyed my confidence..I can't eat out at all and so I pretty much avoid everything..I don't smile any more and it has really gotten to me how much I am missing out on..I have 3 disabled adult children to care for and so cannot pay for implants..If I could I would..I feel a little angry that I first got my fear from a school nhs dentist and then went on to receive what was definitely unnecessary treatment that lead to the lose of many of my top teeth and I cannot get dental implants..There is a time limit to sue of 3 years which seems unfair as I didn't know when it was done that this would be the outcome. .and so I am left in limbo and feeling awful. Do you know if there is any way I could qualify for treatment on the nhs and who to approach as I

Ash 09/09/2017 at 1:44 pm

Hi, when I was a baby I had a corvonious hemangioma on my lip. I had surgery which ended up getting infected and had numerous operations after to help fix the problem. I have been left with a more zig zag scar, than an unnoticeable one, if I hadn't had a trainee surgeon. I have had psychological trauma since, too this day. I am 28 years of age. I even refuse to shave properly, just so it's not that noticeable. Is there any way of getting help with some surgical procedure to help the appearance?

UHH Editor 27/07/2017 at 3:58 pm

@_jodi_ - such an application can take months and months for this to be addressed through the NHS. They do not consider cosmetic surgery to be priority surgery.

_jodi_ 26/07/2017 at 4:48 pm

Hi, I am 19 turning 20 in a few months and I have very asymmetrical breasts. This has been something that's been very obvious since a young age and always been/still is a huge insecurity for me. I have contacted doctors for this and they have sent applications for corrective surgery but it has been months now and still nothing. I am slowly losing hope, being in a situation where I cannot afford to correct this problem. This leads me to my next question, can I apply again? Do I give up? Is there anyone I can contact myself about funding? Please help!

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 13/07/2017 at 3:10 pm

Many women have small breasts, but breast enhancement is rarely carrried out on the NHS. The NHS will not pay for breast enlargement on the basis of cosmetic grounds. You would have to be able to prove you are suffering significant psychological and/or mental-health issues for a GP to refer you for surgery.

HUNTER22 13/07/2017 at 12:35 am

Hi I have recently turned 30 years old and I have been suffereing since the age of 18 was once I started to notice my breasts were small. And even now they re mking my life a living hell. I don't go out. I have a son who is 5 and he doesn't understand why I won't take him swimming or on holiday or anywhere I have to wear a bikini. Its causing major anxciety and depression. Even been bullied of ex boyfriend so don't even want to date anyone and my life just isn't normal as my friends lives are. I won't go to work I just don't feel womanly at all. I wear padded bras daily which give me severe back pain and its just getting me really down. I just waant to feel happy nd confident as my life isn't happy right now. Is there anything I can do about this on the NHS ASAP??? I have put it off for years telling my doctor cuz even showing my doctor is embarrassing for me. Please help. Thank u

Whyme? 05/07/2017 at 5:21 pm

I had a car accident where because the surgeons had to do immediate thoroctomy, and preform open heat cardiac massage as I had hear failure they did a very poor job in realigning the cut, as they didnt expect I would survive. I lost the use of my lower limbs and have to mobilize with crutches. Due to the scar I have a a layer of scar tissue which make it absolutely painful for me to walk more than 10 yards. I asked if they could do anything to the scar tissue so I could walk further. The NHS refused as they said this was for cosmetic purposes but a girl had a legs lightened as she wanted to be a model. Several other women had breast enlargement done on the NHS for Psychological trauma. Here I am I just want to had this scar attended to so I can walk without pain and they say no. Especially when they botched the surgery in the first place!

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 03/07/2017 at 12:34 pm

You would have to consult your GP regarding this. You will be referred to a specialist if you are in constant pain. However, we cannot predict whether you doctor feels cosmetic surgery should take place.

Fir 03/07/2017 at 12:50 am

When i was 1 year old i had an accident which cause my thumb to grow deformed. The nail has been hurting everytime it grows i have been hiding it all my life recently 1 person told everyone about my thumb and now i get so many comments. I have felt servelly depressed will nhs correct my thumb make it look normal and let my nail grow without it hurting everytime?

?? lmt 22/04/2017 at 10:15 pm

Hey, I've recently been to see a doctor but he didn't offer much help as he did not think it was something I should be worried about. From as young as the age of 4 I have hated the sight of myself as I have, what my family call, a classic roman nose, even at that ages I hated it soo much it caused me to have anger problems and had to see a child phycologists. I am now 22 and I still hate myself...even more than ever, I cannot allow my self to catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror or I will be reduced to tears, I'm too anxious to leave the house as I feel that people are just looking at me and mocking my nose (I know people aren't even that interested in my nose, but I cannot shake the feeling) it's got to the point that I cannot take my daughter out and have to rely on family, for example I took her to a play area earlier this week, I sucked it up for a few hours till enough was enough I ended up going back to the car and sobbing my heart out for hours and getting angry every time I saw my reflection, the hate I feel for myself is gut wrenching! I know it is silly but I have felt this way since I was 4 and it will never change no matter how hard I have tried.
It has caused so many problems in my life, dropping out of college, pushing me to stay in a very abusive relationship, pushing me away from any kind of relationship or friendship I have ever had, it has also cause me to have drug problems in the past, as it was the only way I felt I could forget about the self hate. please let me know what my options could be, I cant take it anymore

bob 15/03/2017 at 4:14 pm

hi i have pectus excavatum and would like a chest implant how do i go about getting this fixed on the NHS please as its stopping me doing things in life thank you.

AJ 21/02/2017 at 11:36 am

Hi. Similarly to Gary, from 2015, I have one leg thinner than the other. The thinner leg is my right, due to cerebral palsy. What especially bothers me is the calf muscle, it is noticeably undersized compared to its left leg equivalent. One way, or another, I am going to have a calf implant, but if I can save £1000s by having this done on the NHS then so much the better. Is this a viable option for me? I have not worn shorts in public for over a decade. My insecurity is rife. 30 years old now and dogged by this and other problems.I am a British Citizen but I currently reside and work in SE Asia. If such a procedure is a possibility, is there a stipulation that I must be a permanent UK resident? or resident for the last 6 months? etc... Or do I qualify, given my current situation? I look forward to hearing from you.

Tan 17/02/2017 at 11:22 am

Hi im Tanya, im 31 and enquiring about having a calf implant on the nhs. I was born with talapies, which causes calf wasting disease, which make one of my calf thinner than the other. Im very insecure about it. I have sins i have been a child.
Many Thanks. Tanya

Tan 17/02/2017 at 11:18 am

Hi just enquiring if I could a calf implant on the nhs. I was born with talapies which causes calf wasting disease. Which makes one of my calves thinner than the other. I felt very insecure about all my like.

Kelly 08/02/2017 at 7:16 pm

Hi there,

I am female, 24 and have issues with my forehead/hairline. It's the first thing I notice on people when I leave the house, I never wear my hair up for fear of looking even worse, I've physically not left the house on bad days because it gets me so down. It's been an issue for as long as I can remember and I think to myself every day why can't I just have a normal hairline? Is there anything like forehead reconstruction/correction available on the NHS?

Adam 24/01/2017 at 7:13 pm

I have a very asymmetrical skull, my forehead is very ugly, bigger on one side.
Ive been hiding it behind hair all of my life (current 29yrs). Now my hairline is receding making it impossible to hide.
I dont want live a life under this hat.
Any info on this would be appreciated.
Adam

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 10/01/2017 at 11:08 am

Occasionally, it may be provided on the NHS for psychological or other health reasons. For example, the NHS might pay for a tummy tuck if the person has excess fat or skin after weight loss or pregnancy. You would have to visit your GP for a possible referral.

Jkl 09/01/2017 at 1:34 pm

Hi i have got kids and with my last i had a csection , from that i am left with a large overhang on my stomoch and its getting me really down and depressed would nhs help ?

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 30/11/2016 at 2:57 pm

Breast asymmetry can sometimes be due (although, not conclusively) to Poland's Syndrome, where the breast tissue fails to develop on one side. Surgical treatment can help reshape the breast and correct any asymmetry. Therefore, it would be worth re-visiting your GP to see whether you can be referred to a consultant. In some parts of England there is no restriction to NHS treatment (for what is considered a congenital condition). However, it is dependent upon your local area. Your GP will make a possible diagnosis and from there you can move forward. I hope this helps.

Reese 30/11/2016 at 9:20 am

Hello! I have a serious problem since I was 16 years old. One of my breast never grew. I have been dealing with this for so long I am now 27. I can't wear regular bathing suit tops I wear 5 gels inserts in one side of my bra just to match the other. a long time ago my doctor told me I may have a issue cause one of my breast wasn't growing but my mom never took me back for the issue. It's like I have a A cup and D cup. Can this be covered by insurance. This is so stressful i had a boyfriend for 5 years and he never saw them like it's a serious embarrassment.

HelenM 05/10/2016 at 3:40 pm

I had an emergency appendectomy which was botched by the nhs surgeon. I then had to have further tummy operation to fix that which has left me with a mishapen tummy - no matter how many hours i spend at the gym weekly - my tummy shape hasn't improved. I now will not be without clothes even in front of my partner. I won't wear a costume either. I feel really bitter towards the NHS because of this. I feel that they should correct their mistake instead of me having to go abroad to get this fixed.

Shells 05/10/2016 at 12:34 am

My forehead has stopped me from enjoying life to the full. Not getting my hair wet in public, not walking into direct wind without trying to turn my head. Not being able to have hair off my face. So tired of people saying it's cosmetic. It's affected my life massively to the point I've thought of harming my head or myself. I've told my gp before and he just said I think it looks ok. Well it doesn't. I used to get bullied for it and 2 boyfriends in my adult life have picked on me for it. It's psychologically damaging. I want a reduction so bad.

Lara 24/09/2016 at 8:27 pm

I'm 16 and have an extremely prominent chin in which I get extremely upset about, I have recently had braces off so am still referred to an orthodontist, could this help me if I decided to go and ask to have my chin reduced? I find myself always trying to hide it, and this sometimes means not smiling, laughing, etc. Which is having a negative effect on me mentally

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 15/09/2016 at 10:31 am

I think it would be very difficult to be able to get surgery on the NHS for a reason such as this unless it was a very noticeable condition that 'seriously' affected your life on a day-to-day basis. The only way to get a full answer regarding this would be to ask your GP. I shouldn't worry about feeling 'silly', as your GP is there to help if he or she can.

jj 14/09/2016 at 12:20 pm

Hi I am desperate to have my hairline lowered weather that be surgery or hair implant. I have read below that you have said this is cosmetic and has to be seen as really effecting you mentally. I can not explain enough how this effects my day to day life. However how would I go about proving this? It is so embarrassing to explain to my GP. And to be asking if I can get help to pay my way to get my issue sorted makes me feel silly. I hide my face behind a fringe every day and won't ever change my hairstyle due to the way it makes me feel if my face is bare. It is so upsetting to me to feel this way every day. Thanks for advice in advance

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 31/05/2016 at 11:44 am

Most people are referred to NHS plastic surgeons by their GP or a specialist consultant they see about their condition - therefore you would have to take this route. However, as specified in the article, the NHS is unlikley to approve surgery for cosmetic reasons unless you can prove it has caused servere psychological distress.

Gina 30/05/2016 at 3:26 pm

I would love to have my hairline lowered as my forehead is very large it has affected my confidence over the years is it possible to have it done on the NHS for free?? How do I go about having it done?

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 25/05/2016 at 2:21 pm

You can only access the NHS of you live in the UK, then it is up to your registered doctor to refer you to a consultant if he/she feels it is necessary.

Dee 25/05/2016 at 2:36 am

Is there a chance to be a candidate of this program? I am desperate now to find solution. My nose deformed from my previous surgery and I don't know where to turn to.. losing trust and hope.

tan 28/02/2016 at 2:39 pm

Hi there I've got talapies (clubfoot )
I'm just wondering if you can calf implaints on nhs. I'm 30 I've never had confidence in showing my legs. As really got bullied through my hole school days. I've been thinking about having it done for ages.
Many Thanks
Tanya

Science Guy. 19/02/2016 at 1:49 am

NHS ARE USELESS... Your GPs are the ones who hold the funds and make the decision, if they wake up on the right side of the bed, they might consider plastic surgery if it effects your quality of life, although its improbable. Ive been struggling with a club foot since birth. It is not corrected, still points inwards, and i have no calf muscle what so ever. I have artheritis, and my quality of life is non existent. I snapped my tibia in half due to a hyper extension injury, caused by an ankle fusion as my foot is angled. The toes are lower than the heal. I have two screws holding my tibia together now, so cant have x rays or Scans any more, my hips are ruined, i suffer with back pain. I have no social life, no confidence, never leave home really unless its dark. , the GP told me its apparently stable, and that my pain originates from nerves. Which it doesn't at all! It originates from the two 6 inch screws running down my growth plate, my hip on the right is visibly swollen constantly, the ankle burns and causes me issues, as there is no flex. GPS dont know, they arent trained to know. My knee pops and clicks every step i take. after care was non exsistent. They wont do me any surgery as they consider this stable, even though there is nothing stable about it. My ankle burns. The pain gets so bad that i dont want to wake up at all. NHS are really poor, all around! GPs are arrogant Aholes, who dont really care about your well being. They are just there to do a job, which is not enough with this kind of thing.
Sorry to all you people suffering, the options are slim for us, we are disadvantaged and no body understands this. I have drawn the conclusion that my only option is to try and raise enough funds to pay for the surgery i need. I cant afford the minor bits and pieces so i dont have alot of faith, at this point, not waking up tomorrow would be better than my current situation, and as i said i cant even have xrays so it never gets that far. They refer me to a physio which does nothing as there is no muscle to build up. Ohwell, thats life, All i can say is have faith and take it day by day, now and then miracles do happen, probability shows that if it can happen it will happen. Focus on the positive things, and CHOOSE how to think and feel, dont let problems decide for you. They dont define you. Its just a shame society doesnt have the same outlook, we are viewed as less, something to gaupe at, something to question, you shouldnt have to explain your condition to nosey people. You shouldnt be laughed at, and judged for being a freak but thats how it is. Just remember that some of us care, take it one step at a time, things sometimes get worse before they improve, and you might discover a path down a hidden road very soon if you look out for it.
I wish you all the best for future. L

greenbean 05/11/2015 at 5:36 pm

please could some from nhs get back to me can l have a tummy tuck on nhs

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 21/10/2015 at 2:30 pm

You could make a complaint directly to the NHS, and for tipshere. I hope this helps.

graham 20/10/2015 at 5:18 pm

My cheekbone was misdiagnosed.My cheekbone is now 'fused'.
This has left me clinically depressed and im afraid to go out.I couldn't handle people staring so I gave up work.When I do go out it is to collect my two girls & that's an effort.
I need a cosmetic cheek implant or a fat transfer but this costs £5,000+.
Working on a low wage will take me 4 years to save that amount of money & suffer the embarrassment when people stare or make stupid comments.
The NHS won't help even tho they are the people who misdiagnosed me.
I think some of the NHS policy are cruel.
Please let me know if you have any suggestions.
Thank you,bye

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 08/09/2015 at 2:52 pm

As with the previous comment, I can only suggest you make and appointment to see your GP, who may consider surgery via the NHS, if you have a major physical or psychological reason for needing it. Please see NHS link here for more information. I hope this helps.

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 08/09/2015 at 2:47 pm

I can only suggest you make and appointment to see your GP, who may consider surgery via the NHS, if you have a major physical or psychological reason for needing it. Please see NHS link here for more information. I hope this helps.

becca 07/09/2015 at 9:48 pm

I'm only 15 but my breast have always been abnormally large.32 F and they're really saggy and I'm so self conscious, I know that no ones going to see them for a while but I just dont want it to be this way at all and I want to know if there's anyway of getting it for free when I'm old enough because I'm a really self conscious person.

becca1 07/09/2015 at 9:44 pm

I'm 15 and I've always been really self conscious about my extremely large forehead, I hate it when the wind goes back on my face or when my hairs tied because my foreheads completely disproportionate to the size of my other facial features. I've been bullied about it since year 7 and I hate it so much and I really need hairline lowering surgery done as soon as possible but obviously I dont have the money and probably to young, can someone help please?

gary 15/08/2015 at 11:31 pm

hi, I was born with club foot and one leg is noticeably smaller than the other and considering trying to get calf implants threw the nhs as I refuse to wear shorts because of the way it looks and the way I feel because I think people would talk about it. What way would I go about achieving this?

Mike 15/08/2015 at 10:16 am

Hi I'm 23 had an accident when I was a child which left my penis scarred and slightly deformed it is also quite small, this has affected my life so much I find it really difficult to connect with people I dont like going out to public places just incase I need to use the toilet I can't physically go if other people are around. And it has had a huge impact on my sex life (I have never had sex). I have thought about suicide on many occasions I have panic attacks anxiety, but my doctor doesn't help me atall. What should I do?

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 07/07/2015 at 10:21 am

@becky - has your GP said why he/she will not refer you? As specified in the article, the NHS will not pay for procedures done for cosmetic reasons only. However, if you are suffering undue psychological trauma because of what you perceive to be a physical deformity, they may pay. To do this, you must follow guidelines as set out by your local health authority, and you will, of course, need the referral from you GP. So you may need to go back to speak with your GP again to emphasise the practical needs for the re-constructive surgery.

becky 04/07/2015 at 10:33 am

Hello I am 18 years old but when I was 3 I had my left thumb chopped off in the bedroom door, surgeons at the time Saud when I was older I could have my thumb re operated on but my current GP won't give me a referral to see the plastics team, what else can I do?

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 21/04/2015 at 1:42 pm

@sue - you would have to do your own research here as we can't be seen to be recommending anyone specific. However, I have included a link to the site UK Surgeon, here which may be of help.

sue 19/04/2015 at 5:34 pm

hi, I have really bad cholesterol fatty deposits on both eye lids & underneath, it's very bad I've been asking my doctor if he can get it removed and on Monday he said if I could give him the name of a surgeon who would do it on the NHS he would rite to him n ask for the surgery to be done, do you no any surgeons who do this operation in Glasgow Scotland plz. Much obliged sue x

ExploreCosmeticSurgery Editor 09/04/2015 at 9:33 am

@loran - have you been to see your GP about this? We can't give medical advice, but I'm sure your doctor will be able to refer him to a consultant if it is affecting him psychologically.

loran 06/04/2015 at 4:53 pm

hi,
I was wondering if my teenage son would be able to get a calf implant on the NHS as he has a club foot and his calf is very withered compared to his other one. He is really getting down about this as a few of his friends started commenting on it last summer when he had shorts on. We have tried to reassure him but he is not listening to us.

lola 02/01/2015 at 8:55 pm

Hi I have to ask a question I am 33 years old I have three children from pregnancy my breasts are broken and i am very stressed is it possible for doctors to help me but for free hope you can reply Thankyou

Emmabobs 01/05/2014 at 10:26 pm

Hi i have cerebal palsy down my left side and sue to operations on my leg i have a very skinny leg and struggle getting clothes to fit right or people asking why one leg is thinner than the other was just wondering is it possible for some one like me to get a calf implant on nhs because it is getting to me now

Liz 26/04/2014 at 2:01 pm

Hi, could I get free treatment on the nhs for a chin reduction, I have a very large jaw, this problem has mentally tortured me for years, wondering if there is some one who could help. Thanks

Didi 28/11/2013 at 11:57 am

I am devastated to hear that the lady from Belfast has been accepted upon finding a surgeon. I have exactly the same problem and it has effected my life majorly! I have never worn a skirt without boots and leg warmers as I'm so paranoid and a doctor actually told me if I was to wear a short skirt no one would notice!! They sent me to physio which was pointless I have been trying to build this leg for years anyway I have always been refused. I feel I deserve this operation I'm always helping others never cause anyone harm and I should be able to feel just as pretty as anyone else. I wih ye lady in Belfast the best as I know how this can scar a person but I am truly gutted I have been refused this so many times. I know my life would of been very different and I would be way more confident and be able to keep relationships if I had this operation :(((

Lelo 11/11/2013 at 8:26 pm

Hi, hoping for any advice or forwarding information on calf implants, I'am 29yrs i was born with a club foot had few operations on my foot when i was young it is corrected but ive been left with no muscle in my left calf only over the years my right leg has took on alot more weight and strain etc & therefore is more noticeably bigger than the left which has left me self conscious. Ive recently been more explorable on finding out about implants etc and have been to see my GP she did refere me to plastic surgery here in Belfast but unfortynatley there is no surgeon here to preform the procedure but has asked i widen my options other than Belfast. This has left me to find a suitable surgeon who can do this in the UK my GP will send an NHS referral to see if i'am a good candidate to have it done. If you can give me any sort of information regarding an nhs calf surgeon what hospital i would very much appreciate it. Thanks in advance :)

louise 27/09/2012 at 12:55 pm

hi is it possible that i could qualify for the nhs to carry out a procedure to get rid of my upper n lower eye skin. im 35 and its making me ill, i very really leave my home any more. and im also worried that how i feel will have a serious long term effect on my daughter. my value of life is ruined by how low n depressed i feel. i cannot possibly afford to pay privately for it. i cant work because of how low i feel. i see no end to this nightmare im living. to be able to get this sorted would be a massive change in my value of life,therefore i would live a happy life with my child. :( i cant go on like this any longer.

ExploreCosmeticSurgery 23/06/2011 at 12:00 pm

Unfortunately, the NHS no longer provides free cosmetic surgery, although you may be able to get a GP referral if your condition is deemed medically essential, which means you have a physical or functional defect with your nose. Another option is to get cheaper treatment from trainee cosmetic surgeons at a reputable clinic.

tom 22/06/2011 at 8:12 pm

Hi im curious is it possible to get a nose job for free ? I have always had a problem with my nose and it has increased rapidly over the years enough to make me embarrased or feel realy uncomfortable when sitting next you someone and the thing I can think of is surgery I disagree with plastic surgery so for me to choose to have surgery is a HUGE deal for me.

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