GPSJ Autumn 2024 ONLINE - Flipbook - Page 42
GPSJ
NHS & HEALTHCARE
Calling for regulations
for the cosmetic surgery
industry
Introduction to Regulations
in the Cosmetic Surgery
Sector
The cosmetic surgery industry has
seen remarkable expansion in the
last few years, not least because
of technological advances and
changing attitudes – there is no
longer a stigma around such
treatments.
However, this surge in demand
hasn’t been matched by an
increase in proper regulatory
frameworks in the UK. As with
all medical procedures, strict
regulation should be at the very
core of the cosmetic surgery
industry. Without it, the industry
is at risk of being swamped by
unquali昀椀ed practitioners and
inconsistent care standards, which
ultimately will impact people who
have the procedures.
Robust regulation is essential
to ensure patient protection
and maintain the provision of
high-quality services. Regulatory
measures can help standardise
practices, verify the quali昀椀cations
of surgeons, and establish clear
Kagan Seymenoglu
guidelines for patient care and
safety protocols.
Dangers of Procedures
without Regulation
Without proper regulation and
oversight, unquali昀椀ed practitioners
could cause all kinds of damage
– from the spread of infection,
nerve damage, scarring and even
fatal complications. That’s to
say nothing of the psychological
repercussions botched cosmetic
surgery can cause. Mental health
screening is a key part of a
patient’s cosmetic treatment –
without it, they may not receive
essential support or counselling,
heightening the risk of conditions
such as body dysmorphia or
post-procedure regret. Aftercare
is just as crucial – patients need
proper aftercare and follow-up
- all of which should be properly
regulated.
Acquiring a patient’s
comprehensive medical history
is crucial when considering
cosmetic surgery. Patients
should complete detailed forms
to identify any underlying health
issues, making sure that all
aspects of the patient’s physical
and mental health are considered
before surgery. Regulation should
demand this is done for every
procedure.
Comparing International
Standards
In 2024, over 15 million cosmetic
surgery procedures were
performed worldwide. In 2019, the
global market for cosmetic surgery
was valued at $21billion, and its
predicted to reach $27billion by
the end of this year.
42
GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC SECTOR JOURNAL WINTER 2024/2025
