Cosmetic Surgery on NHS?

[xKimmiex]

Just wondering something. Im 19, had have had 2 babies, Im currently trying to lose 10stone, lost 2 already. My boobs and my tummy are really not a pretty sight.. Whats the chance of getting help on the nhs? Or would i have to go private? [Didnt know where to post this btw lol]

 

[Sam1309]

ohhh i'd also like to know the answer

 

[fed-up-and-fat]

A friend of mine lost over 10 stone and the NHS originally said no to her, but having maintained a sensible BMI for over a year they agreed to do a her tummy and hips. She asked for boobs and arms to be done and they turned her down, she appealed and they still refused so she had to go private for that.

 

[Louise1]

I have a disability and can't lose weight easily at all. My Doc has now suggested gastric banding and any further surgery required (I need to lose 8st) so I'd guess yes the NHS will operate if you lose what you need to and maintain as it's psychological damaging to you.
PS Well done!!!!!

 

[emmapetty]

I spoke to my GP about this, who said that the only time the NHS would consider a tummy tuck is if you have lost the weight yourself (without NHS help, like a gastric band) and maintained a healthy BMI for at least 1 year - I think they hope that the majority of people who loose and maintain for this amount of time will most likely loose most of the excess skin.

Also, the younger you are the better your chances of your skin going back in, as your skin is more flexible at a younger age.

Hope this helps! xxx

 

[Caz]

I think it all depends on what Primary Care Trust you're in to be honest, because it varies hugely. Each PCT has a criteria set out for any kind of cosmetic surgery, so you need to give them a call and ask them about what theirs is. I know someone who had a gastric band, lost 9 stone and then had a tummy tuck, on the NHS, but then as Emma said, some places may not give you any cosmetic surgery after an NHS funded gastric band or bypass, so maybe the fact that you're doing it alone will benefit you.

Though to be honest, getting cosmetic surgery on the NHS isn't easy, you have to jump through a lot of hoops! Normally it starts with your GP and they'll refer you and you'll then see a plastic surgeon for a consultation. But then you've got to go and be assessed by either a psychiatrist or psychologist and they look at whether there's enough psychological or physical benefit from the surgery. I think they look at social benefit too, though to be honest I've got no idea what that includes!

So basically, in short, it's possible, but difficult, and the only way of knowing your chances is by having a chat with your doctor. You can still talk to them about it now, see what your PCT policy is, ask about when you'd be able to be assessed and put forward, what the criteria is etc.

Hopefully you won't need it and being young will go in your favour!