Plastic Surgery

About the Service

The psychologist sees people who have a psychological problem relating to, or affecting treatment in plastic surgery. This may be for the patient themselves and/or their family.

Assessments are carried out for an opinion on the appropriateness or timing of surgery, or for preparation for surgery.

Referrals

Any member of the Plastic or Maxillofacial surgery team can make a referral, although it is preferable that this is discussed with the consultant where possible.

GP referrals are welcome, though if this is for an assessment regarding cosmetic surgery, the request should first have been approved by the "difficult choices" or equivalent committee of the local PCT.

Potential referrals can be discussed with the psychologist before a referral is made. A referral should also be discussed and agreed with the patient.

Reasons for Referral

• Adjustment to a disfigurement
• Difficulties relating to social interaction or communication following disfigurement
• Problems relating to body image
• Loss or bereavement
• Depression or low mood
• Anger or aggression
• Difficulties that relate to anxiety or phobias that affect treatment or recovery are also appropriate
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Complex treatment decisions

Children with congenital or acquired disfigurement can be seen, for example for help in managing relationships or bullying. Work may be through family members if children are young.

When and where we provide services

Appointments are usually Monday to Friday, between 9a.m. and 5p.m.
Outpatients are usually seen at St Luke's hospital.

In-patients are usually based on Ward 19 at BRI

Available treatments

Assessments - an opportunity to discuss reasons for requesting surgery and the impact this might have on someone's life. This may also include information sharing, looking at options or facilitating decision making if appropriate.

• Cognitive behavioural work to focus on specific difficulties such as depression or post traumatic stress.
• Social skills training
• Counselling, supporting adjustment to disfigurement,
• Discussion, advice, support and education may also be offered to families, and particularly parents of young children

In patient treatment may include some of the above. Treatment may also be indirect in supporting staff to be aware of, or work with psychological difficulties identified in in-patients.

Waiting times

We aim to see in-patients within 2 working days of referral.
Outpatients will be informed of referral within 2 weeks and would usually be sent an appointment at that time. There may be a short wait to be seen, particularly for assessments for surgery.

For more information contact

Psychology Services

St Luke's Hospital

Bradford

BD5 0NA

Tel 01274 365176

Fax 01274 365177