Medics urge caution over cosmetic surgery

Patients need to take care when selecting a practitioner to perform cosmetic surgery, experts have warned.

As with any form of operation, cosmetic surgery carries an element of risk and patients should therefore make the effort to ensure the practitioner is qualified, especially if they are considering treatment abroad, said Dr Sneh Khemka of Bupa.

The associate medical director commented: "It's very important to advise people to go to the right surgeon - is their surgeon experienced in this field, do they have adequate knowledge and a history of doing enough of these procedures to be regarded as safe and competent?"

Dr Khemka said that patients should be aware of the risks of cosmetic surgery, especially if they are elderly as the risks associated with anaesthetics become greater.

In addition, he pointed out that the lack of regulation surrounding non-surgical cosmetic treatments makes it particularly important to check out the practitioners involved.

"Pretty much any Tom, Dick or Harry" can provide botox injections, he said, meaning that you "may be injected by someone who's not qualified to deal with the consequences".

Consumers are advised to visit a reputable private clinic when considering cosmetic surgery or non-surgical cosmetic treatments.

   
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