What if beauty isn’t just about changing how someone looks—but helping them feel like themselves again? That’s exactly the mission that drives Dr Sharma, a surgeon who combines surgical precision with genuine care. His journey—from first discovering plastic surgery to becoming a leading name in aesthetic safety—is as inspiring as it is educational. In this interview with Antonia Mariconda, editor of Safety in Beauty, we get under the skin of what motivates him, how he stays ahead in his field, and why every patient’s journey matters.
Dr Sharma, what inspired you to pursue a career in plastic surgery, and how did your journey in this field begin?
My interest in plastic surgery was first sparked during medical school, when I discovered a specialty that blended art with the ability to help people in profoundly meaningful ways. I was drawn to its challenge and diversity — being trained to operate on any tissue, from every part of the body from the head to the toe — whilst also engaging in problem-solving and creativity at the highest level to restore both function and form.
Has there been a defining moment in your surgical career that confirmed this was your true calling?
One defining moment in my career was performing a DIEP flap breast reconstruction for a woman following breast cancer. She had been through an incredibly difficult journey, and to be able to restore not just her physical form but also her confidence was deeply moving. She was so grateful, and told me that this ‘new self’ was the line drawn under her cancer journey. That moment made me realise this was my true calling.
How has your medical and surgical training shaped your philosophy when it comes to patient care and aesthetic outcomes?
My medical and surgical training has shaped my philosophy to always balance science with artistry. I believe in the highest standards of excellence, safety, and trust, ensuring that every patient feels confident and cared for at every step. Every patient deserves results that are natural, in harmony with their individuality, and achieved with complete dedication to their well-being. For me, it’s not about changing someone — it’s about helping them feel whole again, inside and out.
Can you tell us more about your clinic — what makes it unique in the field of plastic surgery?
My practice is built on three core values: excellence, safety, and trust. What makes it unique is the combination of advanced surgical expertise with a truly personalised approach. I take the time to understand each patient’s goals, lifestyle, and concerns, and then design a treatment plan that is tailored entirely to them.
What kind of experience do you strive to give each patient from consultation to recovery?
From the initial consultation to full recovery, I strive to provide every patient with a seamless and optimised experience. I believe in clear communication, setting realistic expectations, and offering continuous support throughout the entire journey. My goal is for patients to feel fully informed, empowered, and genuinely cared for at every stage of their treatment.”
Patient safety is critical in your specialty — how do you embed this into your daily practice and procedures?
Safety is the foundation of everything I do. I am a doctor first and a surgeon second, and I will always act in my patients’ best interest. This commitment is embedded into my daily practice through meticulous preoperative planning, strict adherence to evidence-based protocols, and the use of accredited facilities. By combining rigorous safety standards with an uncompromising commitment to excellence, I ensure that every procedure is performed with the utmost care and precision. Hence my partnership with Safety in Beauty was a natural progression to collectively aim to raise the standards in aesthetic surgery in the UK.
What sets me apart, aside from my world-class training, is my communication. I believe I am a people’s person — I enjoy talking with people, putting them at ease, and building trust from our very first conversation. For me, plastic surgery is as much about the human connection as it is about the technical skill.
I am constantly honing my skills through ongoing study, attending world conferences, and sharing knowledge and ideas with others in the field. Staying at the forefront of innovation and best practice is essential to providing my patients with the highest standards of care.
Which plastic surgery procedures are currently most in demand, and why do you think they’re resonating with patients today?
Breast augmentation and abdominoplasty remain highly sought-after procedures. Recently, with the rise of effective weight-loss medications supporting significant weight reduction, I’ve noticed a growing demand for body contouring surgeries. These procedures help patients address excess skin and restore their body shape after major weight loss.
There’s also a global trend towards natural, harmonious results—patients want to look healthy and refreshed, rather than dramatically altered. Advances in surgical techniques and technology, like 3D imaging and microsurgery, enable personalised treatments that prioritise balance and proportion.
Are there any techniques, tools, or innovations in plastic surgery that you’re especially excited about right now?
Regenerative medicine is advancing rapidly, and on a recent trip to Dubai, I had the opportunity to meet Dr Jaffer Khan, a world leader in this subspecialty. The innovations in this field are truly exciting and have the potential to significantly transform surgical outcomes, offering patients more natural, long-lasting results with improved healing and fewer complications.
What’s your approach to delivering results that look refined and natural, rather than overly ‘done’?
My approach focuses on understanding each patient’s unique goals and anatomy, ensuring results that enhance their natural features. Clear communication and setting realistic expectations are vital to achieving outcomes that feel authentic, refined, and empowering.
With increasing social pressure and digital filters, how do you help patients set realistic expectations about surgery?
I believe honesty and clear explanation are absolutely essential. I take time to discuss what is realistically achievable and why certain results may or may not be possible. Helping patients understand the reasons behind these outcomes is vital for informed decision-making whilst balancing potential risks. I also implement a cooling-off period after consultations to allow patients time to reflect. Additionally, I screen for conditions like body dysmorphic disorder to ensure surgery is the appropriate path.
What advice would you give to someone considering their first plastic surgery procedure?
My advice is to thoroughly research both the procedure and the surgeon. It’s crucial to ensure your surgeon is on the GMC specialty register for plastic surgery — this guarantees they have the right qualifications and experience. Don’t rush the decision; take your time to understand the process, risks, and expected outcomes. The process should not be rushed as aesthetic plastic surgery is elective and very subjective. Hence each treatment must be tailored to each patient.
How do you view the current state of regulation in the aesthetics and cosmetic surgery industry in the UK? What changes would you welcome?
The Royal College of Surgeons has developed a cosmetic surgery certification scheme linked to the specialty register, which helps patients identify surgeons who are fully registered and qualified in aesthetic or cosmetic surgery. I welcome the government’s ongoing efforts to raise standards across the UK’s industry. It’s equally important to address the risks associated with cosmetic tourism abroad, which remains a significant concern.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a plastic surgeon for you?
For me, the most rewarding part is seeing how surgery can profoundly impact a person’s confidence and quality of life. Whether it’s reconstructive work after cancer or subtle aesthetic enhancements, knowing that I’ve helped someone feel more like themselves and regain their self-esteem is deeply fulfilling.
How do you maintain balance between the demands of surgery, running a clinic, and looking after your own wellbeing?
I prioritise my family and being fully present with them. We enjoy watching Formula One together, along with movie nights and long walks. We love to travel regularly, and those trips are when I truly recharge. I’m fortunate to have a great group of friends and a vibrant social life, which adds to my sense of balance and wellbeing. I feel very lucky to have these personal joys to help me stay energised and grounded for my work. Lately, I’ve been thinking of getting an at home cold plunge as part of my wellness routine.
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