The Current Outlook for Cosmetic Surgery in Spain

Between 2013 and 2021, the number of aesthetic procedures in Spain grew by 215%, consolidating the country as a European benchmark. This figure is not just a figure, but a reflection of a growing interest in personal wellness and confidence. However, this boom has brought with it a major challenge. According to data published by Consumer.es, this growth has been accompanied by a significant risk: the Spanish Society of Aesthetic Medicine (SEME) estimates that 8 out of 10 practices are performed by unqualified personnel. This brings to the table the risks of intrusiveness in esthetics.

This situation is compounded by the so-called “scalpel tourism”. Although the lower prices in other countries may seem attractive, they often lack the regulatory safety and postoperative follow-up offered in Spain. Making a hasty decision can have serious consequences for your health.

That is why we have prepared this guide. We want to offer you a clear and close roadmap so that you can choose a plastic surgeon in Spain with total security. Your peace of mind comes first, and being well informed is the first step to achieve it.

Credential Verification: Your First Step Toward Security

Before valuing experience or photos of results, there is a fundamental and non-negotiable step: checking credentials. In Spain, the only official title that guarantees that a doctor has complete and recognized training is that of “Medical Specialist in Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery”. Other terms such as “cosmetic surgeon” or “aesthetic surgeon” are not officially recognized and can lead to confusion.

The most reliable way to do this is through the professional search engine of the Spanish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (SECPRE), the highest authority in the field in our country since 1956. To verify a plastic surgeon in the SECPRE, just follow these steps:

1. Visit the SECPRE website.
2. Look for the “Find your surgeon” section.
3. Enter the name of the professional or filter by province.
4. Confirm that you are listed as a member.

But the verification does not end with the surgeon. The center where the intervention is performed must also have all the authorizations. Incidents such as the one that occurred in 2025 with illegal substances in a clinic demonstrate the importance of verifying that the center has a valid registration number in the Catalog of Health Centers and Establishments of its autonomous community. A professional team, such as the one that makes up our center, will always operate in duly accredited facilities.

Beyond the Degree: The Relevance of Experience and Specialization

Having SECPRE certification is the foundation, but the next level is finding a surgeon with deep expertise in the procedure you are interested in. Being an expert in facial surgery is not the same as being an expert in body contouring. In fact, a study by the SECPRE itself revealed that 85% of patients prioritize surgeons with more than a decade of experience in the desired procedure. This shows that specialization is a decisive factor for patients.

When reviewing “before and after” galleries, do so with a critical eye. Don’t just look at the end result. Pay attention to these details:

• Consistency: Are the lighting and angles of the photos similar for fair comparison?
• Naturalness: Do the results look harmonious and in accordance with the patient’s physiognomy?
• Similarity: Are there cases of patients with a similar starting point to yours?

Think of it as hiring a craftsman for a very specific task. A surgeon may be a benchmark in rhinoplasty, but have less of a track record in breast augmentation. If you are considering blepharoplasty, look for a surgeon who shows a wide gallery of successful results in that specific procedure. Similarly, for a breast reduction, proven experience is essential to ensure a harmonious and satisfactory result. The best aesthetic clinics in Spain usually stand out for their proven specialization in specific areas.

The Initial Consultation: What to Ask and Observe

The first visit is much more than just an informational appointment. Consider it a two-way interview: the surgeon evaluates you, and you evaluate him. It is your opportunity to resolve doubts and, above all, to measure the level of confidence he/she conveys to you. Knowing what the first surgery consultation is like prepares you to get the most out of it. Do not hesitate to ask directly:

• How many interventions like mine have you performed this year?
• In which hospital or clinic would the surgery be performed and what accreditations does it have?
• What are the specific risks of this procedure in my case?
• What will the postoperative follow-up be like and who will perform it?
• Don’t hesitate to ask about his specific expertise in procedures such as jowl liposuction if that’s what you’re interested in.

Beyond the answers, observe his communication: does he listen to you carefully or does he interrupt you? Does he explain concepts clearly or does he take refuge in technicalities? A good professional will give you time to decide, without pressure or last-minute offers. Trust is as important as technical skill. These standards of patient care are in line with the recommendations of international organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), which guarantees a high level of safety.

Signs to Watch For During the First Consultation

This table summarizes the key indicators that will help you evaluate the surgeon’s professionalism and approach during the first visit, allowing you to make a more confident decision.

Aspect to Evaluate	Positive Signal (Confidence)	Warning Signal (Caution)
Communication	Listens actively, responds with patience and clarity.	Interrupts you, uses incomprehensible jargon or minimizes your doubts.
Surgical Plan	Customized to your anatomy and goals, explains pros and cons.	Offers a ‘standard’ solution without a detailed evaluation.
Pressure and Timing	Encourages you to take your time to decide.	Press for you to book surgery with limited time offers.
Transparency	Talks openly about the risks and the recovery process.	Guarantees ‘perfect’ results and avoids talking about complications.

Interpreting Patient Opinions and Testimonials

Consulting online reviews is a common habit, but it is important to do so with a balanced perspective. A study conducted in 2025 by Dr. Garcia Ceballos’ team revealed that 71% of patients suspect that online reviews can be manipulated. This does not mean that you should ignore them completely, but that you should learn to read between the lines.

Instead of basing your decision on a couple of isolated comments, whether very positive or very negative, look for consistent patterns. Do several patients mention communication problems? Or, conversely, do they repeatedly highlight the excellent treatment of the team? Those trends are much more revealing.

To get a more reliable picture, consider other sources. Ask the surgeon directly if he or she can provide you with anonymous, verifiable testimonials. You can also consult your trusted family physician. To supplement your research, look for reliable sources of information, such as articles written by specialists in regenerative and aesthetic medicine, which offer an expert, non-commercially biased view.

A More Transparent Future for Patient Safety

The cosmetic surgery industry continues to grow, with projections exceeding 250,000 procedures annually by 2027. This figure reflects continued patient confidence, as long as things are done right. Fortunately, the tools to ensure this are also advancing. SECPRE itself is developing a real-time digital verification system that promises to make intrusiveness even more difficult and empower the patient.

The process of choosing a plastic surgeon in Spain is a thoughtful path that combines several factors: a rigorous verification of credentials, an honest assessment of experience, a personal connection during the consultation, and an informed judgment on testimonials. Here are the best cosmetic surgery tips we can give you.

By following these steps, you can feel confident that you are making the best decision for your well-being.