A warning not to rush into cosmetic surgery before going under the knife because of risks involved has been fired off by a top surgeon in London’s East End.

The number of people wanting plastic surgery contacting the London Independent Hospital has risen by more than 160 per cent since the beginning of January.

Specific enquiries about breast implants, breast or face lift procedures and nose reshaping have trebled at the hospital in Stepney Green, which is now handling twice as many appointments than normal since the start of 2014.

“Cosmetic surgery is a serious, life-changing decision which should not be rushed into,” consultant plastic surgeon Mak Tare warned.

“Women and men should not let their eagerness for change overpower their ability to make a responsible choice.”

He is urging wouldbe patients to check surgeons’ credentials to make sure they are on the General Medical Council’s specialist register.

“The procedures you want may not be the most suitable,” Mr Tare added. “It’s better to explain the problems you’re experiencing or changes you want.”

Surgery involves risk, he points out. Patients should ask what happens if things don’t go to plan—in the event of any acute complications after surgery.