15.08.12
DH considers tighter cosmetic surgery regulations
The Department of Health has launched a major review into cosmetic surgery and non-invasive procedures, to consider whether patients would benefit from tighter regulations on the industry.
The call for evidence, open from today, will consider the best way to protect patients in response to concern about the industry, following the PiP breast implant scandal.
People will be asked to submit views on whether patients receive the right amount of information before making a decision on surgery, the importance of establishing good aftercare and approaches to ensure the people who carry out procedures have the necessary skills to do so.
Improvements to the way complaints are managed is also being considered. An expert panel will collect evidence and make recommendations to the Government on these issues next March.
Other considerations include the establishment of a national implant register, which could include information on the type of surgery, the product used and where and when a procedure was carried out.
A recent survey of 1,762 people showed that 67% consider cost as a factor in deciding to have cosmetic surgery compared to 54% who would prioritise the practitioner’s qualifications. Only 44% considered aftercare as a major factor in their decision.
Professor Sir Bruce Keogh said: “The recent problems with PiP breast implants have shone a light on the cosmetic surgery industry. Many questions have been raised, particularly around the regulation of clinics, whether all practitioners are adequately qualified, how well people are advised when money is changing hands, aggressive marketing techniques, and what protection is available when things go wrong.
“I am concerned that too many people do not realise how serious cosmetic surgery is and do not consider the life-long implications – and potential complications – it can have.
“We want to hear views from everyone, particularly people who have experience of the cosmetic surgery industry or of other cosmetic interventions – good and bad – so we can learn what works best.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]