It is extremely worrying that unfit breast implants have made their way into the market and distressing for those involved.

 

While there is no immediate medical emergency, it is to be hoped that the industry and government will accept their responsibilities together and work towards a better regulated future.

 

What is even more worrying is that this failure should take place in the surgical sector of the aesthetic world as this is the area which is still regulated by the Government.

So it is easy to see why we are very concerned about what is happening at present in the unregulated sector - that is primarily injectables, lasers and light-based treatments.

At Mapperley Park Clinic we have been educating clients for years on the potential dangers of so-called "non-invasive" cosmetic medicine and have been lobbying for effective regulation since the Givernment's own expert panel recommended full deregulation in 2005.

Unfortunately, Government instead deregulated so that there are not even the same controls as in the surgical sector - in fact there are no controls at all.

It is now quite possible buy your own filler from China for $600 per kilo, which works out at about 45p per treatment - you just need to load your own needles.

Or what about a laser which claims to deliver the same output as our £50,000 lasers for just $1,000 online from China? Scary, isn't it?

So what can you do to avoid the pitfalls and ensure that you are getting the best possible treatment and provider.

Stick to CQC (Care Quality Commission) registered establishments and do your research on the internet.

Write down and ask your list of questions and don't be afraid to seek a second opinion.

If you are well informed it is much easier for you to assess the competence of those that you are seeking to carry out your procedures.

Finally, don't be put off entirely - there are providers out there who love what they do, and are extremely good at it, and that enthusiasm and expertise will shine through.

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