Meet... Dr Chris Macdonald

We recently spoke to Chris Macdonald who moved to Tunbridge Wells in 2020 to work as a plastic surgeon at Purity Bridge on Mount Ephraim. He has dedicated his career to helping people improve their confidence and mental health through a variety of procedures. We talk about the benefits and risks of surgery and his love of local history…

Chris Macdonald

What brings you to Tunbridge Wells?

I originally grew up in the South East before leaving for medical school in London and since then have lived and worked across the UK. My family and I returned to Tunbridge Wells in 2020 as I had an opportunity to work at the internationally renowned Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead and to join the amazing team at Purity Bridge. I have now settled in central Tunbridge Wells where my children are at school.

What inspired you to work in Plastic Surgery?

I knew that I wanted to work where I can use my hands, problem solve and positively impacts patients’ lives and plastic surgery is the perfect combination of all of these things. I first encountered plastic surgery while working as a junior doctor in Hertfordshire and was very lucky to work with some very passionate surgeons whose enthusiasm rubbed off on me. Plastic surgery also allows me to combine artistry with cutting edge science which I find extremely satisfying.

I went to medical school in London, at University College London and then worked in London, Hertfordshire and Essex before first coming to work near Tunbridge Wells. I then carried on my plastic surgery training in Norfolk and across the Midlands where I became a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS Plast). After this I won competitive and exclusive advanced training fellowships in cosmetic plastic surgery and skin cancer management. I worked as a consultant plastic surgeon in the Midlands and set up a successful private practice there before returning to the South East.

What procedures do you offer?

I offer a wide range of options for patients seeking both reconstructive or aesthetic surgery to the face, breast and body. I originally trained in all aspects of plastic and cosmetic surgery but now focus mostly of surgery of the breast, body and abdomen.

The majority of procedures that I perform are to help people who have either had significant changes as a result of pregnancy, weight loss or the ageing process (or all three). This is commonly referred to as body contouring and can involve the removal of excess skin and fat and results in reshaping the body area. With regards to breasts this usually involves lifting the breasts to a higher position and can be combined with reducing the size of the breasts or increasing the size using your own fat of breast implants.

Do you think cosmetic surgery is right for everyone?

Cosmetic surgery can have a huge impact on improving patient’s mental health and confidence. I have patients who directly relate their surgery to progressing their careers and establishing healthy relationships. However, it is so important that patients’ have realistic expectations about what can be achieved.

Unfortunately, some people suffer from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) which may mean that they will not be satisfied even with an excellent result. These patients can still sometimes be helped with cosmetic surgery but this needs to be performed as part of a multi-disciplinary team working closely with psychologists, psychiatrists and counsellors.

What can we expect when we arrive at Purity Bridge for a procedure/treatment?

You’ll be greeted by one of the front of house staff who are all warm and friendly. You’ll then be made comfortable in one of our waiting areas and offered a coffee or refreshment while you wait for your consultation in comfort.

How can we expect to feel after having surgery?

The timeline of recovery can vary quite a lot for some patients but in general most of the surgery that I perform leaves patients comfortable without much need for painkillers etc. After things have settled down patients, nearly universally, find a new found self-confidence which means that not only has their body changed but their posture, demeanour and outlook on life can be significantly changed.

What would you suggest to someone who is considering cosmetic surgery?

This is not something that should be rushed. Think positively about what it is that you would like to change and how this could impact on you. Try to be specific about want you to achieve and then do your research and find a reputable plastic surgeon or clinic. You may want to use a plastic surgeon that is a member of the British Association of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgeons (BAPRAS) as a quality assurance. Go and have a consultation and ask lots of questions and make sure that you feel comfortable with the relationship that you build with your surgeon as you may be seeing a lot of him or her throughout the course of your treatments.

Can anyone have surgery?

In theory plastic surgery can be anyone. The caveat is that their health has to be good enough for them to safely have the required anaesthetic and they need to not have any medical problems that mean they will struggle to heal their body again after the surgery. I can normally give a very clear answer for this during your first consultation but will occasionally ask for documentation from any other doctors that are looking after your medical problems and very occasionally will ask for you to meet an anaesthetist for an in-depth risk assessment before making concrete plans or any surgery.

What do you love about Tunbridge Wells?

1. I am fascinated by history, and love being surrounding by the history of Tunbridge Wells, the newly renovated Chalybeate spring on the Pantiles is of particular interest.

2. I love taking my kids out for a day on our bikes and you’ll regularly find us at Bedgebury or on The Forest Way.

3. We are spoilt for great local independents. Fullers and Sankeys are particular favourites for meat and seafood and the Bicycle Bakery is my go-to for a coffee and baked treat.

For more information please visit: www.crmaesthetics.co.uk/

You can also find. Chris on instagram: @chrismacdonaldplasticsurgery