How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon in Dubai: Qualifications, Safety and Questions to Ask

Dubai has no shortage of aesthetic clinics, and that can make choosing a surgeon feel overwhelming. Your choice of surgeon matters as much as the procedure itself. It affects your safety, your recovery, and how natural your results look.

This guide covers the qualifications to verify, the red flags to avoid, and the questions to ask before you book.

Essential Qualifications to Check

An Active DHA License

Every plastic surgeon practising in Dubai must be licensed by thenDubai Health Authority (DHA). This is the minimum requirement, so ask for the license and check that it is current.

Board Certification in Plastic Surgery

Look for formal specialist training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. A general medical degree or a short aesthetic course is not the same thing. Membership of recognised professional bodies is another good sign. Examples include the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) and the Emirates Plastic Surgery Society.

Experience With Your Specific Procedure

A surgeon may be highly qualified overall but perform some procedures far more often than others. Ask how regularly they perform the treatment you want. Review real before-and-after photos, such as those in our patient gallery.

An Accredited Surgical Facility

Surgery should take place in a fully accredited hospital or licensed surgical centre with proper emergency protocols. It should never happen in a basic treatment room. Ask exactly where your operation will be performed.

Safety Red Flags to Avoid

• Pressure to book quickly: A reputable clinic will never push you to pay a deposit or commit on the day of your consultation.
• Unrealistic promises: Be wary of anyone who guarantees perfection or zero scarring. The same applies to anyone who encourages you to copy a celebrity rather than suit your own anatomy.
• Vague answers about risks: Every surgery carries risks, such as infection, asymmetry, or scarring. A safe surgeon explains them openly and tells you how complications are managed.
• No clear aftercare plan: You should know who looks after you after surgery, including out of hours.

It is also important to know that not everyone is suitable for surgery. Our article on who might not be a good candidate for plastic surgery explains why an honest surgeon will sometimes say no.

Questions to Ask at Your Consultation

Bring these questions to your appointment:

1. Are you board-certified in plastic surgery, and is your DHA license active?
2. How often do you perform this procedure, and can I see results for patients with similar anatomy?
3. Where will my surgery take place, and is the facility accredited for emergencies?
4. What are the most common risks, and how do you handle complications?
5. What will my recovery involve, including garments, time off work and exercise, and who do I call if there is a problem after hours?

A good surgeon will welcome these questions and answer them clearly.

Choosing Dr. Vikesh Vij

Dr. Vikesh Vij is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Dubai. He is a member of ASPS, ISAPS, and the Emirates Plastic Surgery Society. He operates at accredited facilities, including Dubai London Hospital and British Day Surgical Centre. He is also a strong advocate of responsible cosmetic surgery in Dubai.

He offers a full range of body, breast and face procedures, each with a personalised plan.

Book a consultation to discuss your goals and ask every question on this list.