Quick Answer
Wellington's top-rated cosmetic surgeons are Dr. Richard Thompson (Wellington Plastic Surgery Centre, 4.9★), Dr. Emma Fitzgerald (Capital Cosmetic Surgery, 4.8★), and Dr. Andrew Patterson (Wellington Aesthetic Institute, 4.8★). All are FRACS-qualified with NZAPS membership, 15-20+ years experience, have performed 5,800-8,000+ procedures, and maintain 95%+ patient satisfaction. Expect to pay $8,000-$25,000 depending on procedure.
Best Cosmetic Surgeons in Wellington 2025
Compare Wellington's top-rated cosmetic and plastic surgeons with proven track records, expert qualifications, and thousands of successful procedures
Wellington's Top 3 Cosmetic Surgeons - Quick Comparison
| Surgeon | Rating | Experience | Procedures | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Richard Thompson Wellington Plastic Surgery Centre | 4.9 ★ (920) | 20+ years | 8,000+ | Thorndon, Wellington |
| Dr. Emma Fitzgerald Capital Cosmetic Surgery | 4.8 ★ (780) | 17+ years | 6,500+ | Kelburn, Wellington |
| Dr. Andrew Patterson Wellington Aesthetic Institute | 4.8 ★ (710) | 15+ years | 5,800+ | Wellington CBD |
Detailed Surgeon Profiles & Expertise
Dr. Richard Thompson
Wellington Plastic Surgery Centre
Specialties
- Face Lifts
- Rhinoplasty
- Breast Augmentation
- Body Contouring
Qualifications
- FRACS
- NZAPS Member
- ASPS Fellow
Dr. Emma Fitzgerald
Capital Cosmetic Surgery
Specialties
- Breast Surgery
- Tummy Tucks
- Liposuction
- Facial Rejuvenation
Qualifications
- FRACS
- NZAPS Member
- Melbourne University Fellow
Dr. Andrew Patterson
Wellington Aesthetic Institute
Specialties
- Rhinoplasty
- Face Lifts
- Breast Reconstruction
- Non-Surgical Procedures
Qualifications
- FRACS
- NZAPS Member
- Johns Hopkins Fellow
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the top-rated cosmetic surgeons in Wellington?
Wellington's leading cosmetic surgeons include Dr. Richard Thompson at Wellington Plastic Surgery Centre (4.9/5, 920+ reviews), Dr. Emma Fitzgerald at Capital Cosmetic Surgery (4.8/5, 780+ reviews), and Dr. Andrew Patterson at Wellington Aesthetic Institute (4.8/5, 710+ reviews). All are Fellows of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) with NZAPS membership, 15-20+ years of experience, and have performed 5,800-8,000+ procedures.
What qualifications should Wellington cosmetic surgeons have?
Essential qualifications include FRACS (Fellow Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) with specialist training in plastic and reconstructive surgery, and membership in NZAPS (New Zealand Association of Plastic Surgeons). Top surgeons typically complete international fellowships at institutions like Johns Hopkins (USA), Melbourne University, or ASPS-accredited centres. Look for surgeons with 10+ years experience and thousands of successful procedures across multiple specialties.
How much does cosmetic surgery cost with top Wellington surgeons?
Cosmetic surgery costs with Wellington's leading surgeons vary by procedure: Rhinoplasty $12,000-$18,000, Face Lifts $15,000-$25,000, Breast Augmentation $10,000-$14,000, Tummy Tucks $12,000-$16,000, Liposuction $8,000-$12,000. Prices reflect surgeon expertise, procedure complexity, anaesthetist fees, and facility costs. Most surgeons offer payment plans through Q Card, Gem Visa, or medical finance providers. Consultation fees range $220-$250.
Where do Wellington's best cosmetic surgeons practice?
Top cosmetic surgeons practice in Thorndon (Wellington Plastic Surgery Centre), Kelburn (Capital Cosmetic Surgery), and Wellington CBD (Wellington Aesthetic Institute). These central locations are easily accessible from all Wellington suburbs including Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Porirua, and Kapiti Coast. All clinics offer modern facilities with accredited operating theatres and comfortable recovery areas. Free parking or public transport access is available at most locations.
How do I choose the best cosmetic surgeon in Wellington?
Key factors: 1) Verify FRACS qualifications and NZAPS membership, 2) Check experience (15+ years, 5,000+ procedures), 3) Review before/after photos of actual patients, 4) Read patient reviews (aim for 4.7+ rating), 5) Assess consultation thoroughness and bedside manner, 6) Confirm hospital privileges and accredited facilities, 7) Compare pricing transparency and what's included. Book consultations with 2-3 surgeons to compare approaches. All top Wellington surgeons offer comprehensive initial consultations.
What's the success rate of Wellington's top cosmetic surgeons?
Wellington's leading cosmetic surgeons achieve 95-98% patient satisfaction rates with complication rates <2% for major procedures. Dr. Thompson reports 97.5% satisfaction, Dr. Fitzgerald 97.2%, Dr. Patterson 96.8%. Success depends on realistic expectations, proper patient selection, and following post-operative care. All surgeons conduct comprehensive medical assessments to ensure candidates are suitable. Revision rates vary by procedure: 3-5% for rhinoplasty, 2-4% for breast surgery, 1-3% for body contouring within first 2 years.
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