Written by Dr Abdulrazak Abdulsalam (Dr Aras), plastic surgeon · Updated November 2026- Choose a specialist plastic surgeon (FWACS Plast. or FMCS Plast.) registered with the MDCN.
- Expect an honest consultation: a good surgeon will say no when surgery isn’t safe or right for you.
- Plan your recovery and aftercare before you book, especially if you’re travelling.
Cosmetic surgery in Nigeria has grown fast, and so has the number of people offering it. Choosing well is the single biggest thing you can do for a safe operation and a result you’ll be happy with. This guide sets out what to check, what to ask, and what to expect, whether you live in Nigeria or are planning to travel home for surgery.
Plastic surgeon or "cosmetic doctor"? Know the difference
A plastic surgeon in Nigeria is a doctor who has completed years of specialist training in plastic surgery and holds a recognised specialist qualification, such as the Fellowship of the West African College of Surgeons in Plastic Surgery (FWACS Plast.) or the Fellowship of the National Postgraduate Medical College in Plastic Surgery (FMCS Plast.). They should be registered with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
Many plastic surgeons are also members of the Nigerian Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (NAPRAS), and some of international bodies such as the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS).
Other doctors may offer cosmetic procedures without specialist surgical training. Always ask exactly who will do your operation and what their specialist qualification is.
How to choose a plastic surgeon in Nigeria: a checklist
- Check the surgeon’s specialist qualification (for example FWACS Plast. or FMCS Plast.) and MDCN registration.
- Make sure the surgeon you meet at consultation is the one who will operate.
- Ask where the surgery will happen, and who gives the anaesthetic.
- Look at real before-and-after results of the procedure you want.
- Expect an honest consultation. A good surgeon will tell you if you’re not a good candidate, or if you need to lose weight, stop smoking or treat a health condition first.
- Ask about aftercare: who you contact after surgery, how often you’re seen, and what happens if there’s a problem.
- Get a clear written quote, and know what’s included.
The most requested procedures
Body contouring is the most common reason people see a plastic surgeon in Nigeria: liposuction, the Brazilian butt lift (BBL) and the tummy tuck. Breast surgery (augmentation, lift and reduction) and facial surgery (facelift, blepharoplasty and rhinoplasty) are also popular, as are non-surgical treatments such as Botox and fillers.
Safety: what matters most
Most problems after cosmetic surgery are linked to a few things you can plan for: being well above a healthy weight, smoking or vaping, uncontrolled diabetes or blood pressure, blood clots, and conditions such as sickle cell disease. A careful surgeon checks all of these before agreeing to operate.
Some operations, including the BBL, carry specific risks and need a surgeon who follows current safety techniques. Ask your surgeon how they reduce risk for your procedure, and how long you should stay close to the clinic afterwards.
Recovery and aftercare
Recovery depends on the operation: from a few days for smaller procedures to several weeks for a tummy tuck or BBL, usually with a compression garment. Good aftercare means regular checks, clear instructions, and a way to reach the team quickly.
At Beauty Forte Aesthetics, every surgical patient has a personal recovery plan in our app, with day-by-day guidance, a recovery journal Dr Aras can see, and direct messages to the team.
Travelling to Nigeria for surgery
Many of our patients live in the UK, Europe or North America. You can have your first consultation with Dr Aras by video call, plan your dates, and only travel once your surgery is booked. Allow enough time in Nigeria for your recovery and follow-up checks; Dr Aras will tell you how long for your procedure.
What does plastic surgery cost in Nigeria?
The cost depends on the operation, how much is being done, the anaesthetic, and the hospital stay. A responsible clinic gives you a personal written quote after your consultation, not a price over the phone.
At Beauty Forte Aesthetics, your first consultation fee goes towards your surgery if you go ahead. A deposit of 10 to 20% secures your date, and the balance is due one week before surgery. You can pay in parts.
Frequently asked questions
Is plastic surgery safe in Nigeria?
It can be very safe when it is done by a qualified plastic surgeon, in a properly equipped facility, on a patient who has been carefully assessed. Check your surgeon’s specialist qualification and MDCN registration, and be honest about your health.
How do I check if a plastic surgeon in Nigeria is qualified?
Ask for their specialist qualification in plastic surgery (such as FWACS Plast. or FMCS Plast.), check their registration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, and ask whether they are a member of NAPRAS.
Who is a good plastic surgeon in Abuja or Lagos?
Beauty Forte Aesthetics, in Abuja (Guzape) and Lagos (Victoria Island), is led by Dr Abdulrazak Abdulsalam (Dr Aras), a UK-based plastic surgeon (MBBS, MSc, MRCSEd, FWACS Plast.) with over 15 years of experience. Whoever you choose, check their qualifications and see real results.
Can I have a consultation before travelling to Nigeria?
Yes. Dr Aras offers video consultations through the Beauty Forte app, so you can be assessed and plan your surgery before you travel.
How long should I stay in Nigeria after surgery?
It depends on the procedure. Plan to stay near the clinic for your early follow-up checks. Dr Aras will give you a personal timeline at your consultation.