Aesthetic News
Cosmetic Surgeons Want Surgery Adverts Banned
20 February, 2012
The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (Baaps) wants a complete ban on all cosmetic surgery advertising.
This call follows the recent PIP breast implants scandal, which involved low-grade silicone not intended for medical use being used in thousands of implants and has led to a government review of the cosmetic surgery industry as a whole.
The PIP scandal involved around 300,000 implants, with 95% of the 40,000 UK women receiving these low-grade silicon implant surgeries through private clinics. Currently, the industry is unregulated which leaves those considering cosmetic surgery at potential risk from poor quality materials and procedures – it is for this reason that Baaps has called for a ban on advertising as well as yearly checks on surgeons carrying out the procedures.
Baaps president Fazel Fatah said: “Over the last decade the Baaps has worked tirelessly to educate the public on the many aggressive marketing gimmicks that not only trivialise surgery but endanger the patient,” BBC reports.
“We have warned against the unrealistic expectations set by reality ‘makeover’ shows and against crass competition prizes promising ‘mummy makeovers’ and body overhauls. In no other area of surgery would one encounter Christmas vouchers and two-for-one offers – the pendulum has swung too far, and it is time for change.
“Thus we are delighted with the upcoming inquiry and put forward our realistic and achievable proposals for consideration by the government.”
The proposed ban on cosmetic surgery adverts could lead to some positive changes to the industry, especially with regard to adverts that fail to highlight the potential health dangers involved with each procedure. It is vital that anyone considering treatment has a full consultation with an aesthetic doctor, and that the procedure, once deemed safe to proceed, is carried out by a qualified surgeon. So removing all marketing that doesn’t emphasise this is good news for all prospective cosmetic surgery clients.
The government is currently considering what measures to introduce to the sector to protect those who want cosmetic surgery. Measures may include a breast implant registry or an insurance scheme similar to the one in the travel industry.
Professor Sir Bruce Keogh, NHS medical director and head of the government review into the cosmetic surgery industry, said: “I am working with experts from the plastic surgery field to look at what we can do to make sure people who choose to have cosmetic surgery and other cosmetic procedures are safe.
“I will be looking at all aspects of regulation, at the regulation of implants and fillers, at whether the people who carry out cosmetic interventions have the right skills, at whether the clinics look after the care and welfare of their patients.”
Whether advertising of cosmetic surgeries is ultimately banned or not, this government review and call by Baaps are positive moves for anyone considering cosmetic treatment. Clients need to be aware of the full facts to ensure they make the right decision for them, and should not be swayed by glamorous advertising or unnecessary offers.
As the director of the Independent Healthcare Advisory Services, Sally Taber says: “Advertising should be honest and ethical, in everybody’s interests so the patient is aware of what is available.”
Change your eye colour – is it possible?
16 November, 2011
Some cosmetic treatments create dramatic results, but what would be the most significant change to most faces? Skin tone, reduced wrinkles? How about change of eye colour?
Californian doctor Gregg Homer, from Stroma Medical has developed a laser treatment which does exactly that. If you have brown eyes and have always envied friends with stunning blue eyes, this could be for you, but be causious!
The Lumineyes technology removes melanin from the iris, allowing the blue colour to show in around 14-21 days. Dr Jessica Dockrell, co-founder of Oris Medical, warns that even though the results may be impressive “….a reduction of melanin leaves your eye far more susceptible to UV damage.”
The procedure is still in the testing stage, but could be available within 2-3 years at a cost of around £3,000.
Are Your Sunglasses Protecting You?
20 April, 2011
The past couple of weeks have been glorious, with all of our gardens and parks coming out in beautiful bloom and the sun regularly showing it’s face and increasingly warming up. Naturally we all want to take advantage of this time of year and with bank holidays approaching, many hours will be spent out enjoying Britain’s weather at it best.
Most people simply protect their skin from the sun, but your eyes also need protection from harmful UV rays. Here are some facts and tips about selecting an effective pair of sunglasses so you can safely enjoy the summer months.
Why protective sunglasses?
The sun is a potential hazard to your eyes:
- As little as one day in the sun can lead to a burned cornea. This may result in temporary loss of vision.
- Cumulative sun exposure can contribute to certain types of cataracts.
- UV light can damage the retina, causing macular degeneration.
- Excessive sun exposure can lead to skin cancer of the eyelids and around the eyes.
- The sun can prematurely age the skin surrounding your eyes, contributing to crow’s feet.
Good Sunglasses
Plenty of information is available on effective sunscreens, but what makes a pair of sunglasses effective? The first criteria most people look for is probably how they look – perhaps a poor strategy. Here are some tips helping you select your next pair of sunglasses.
- Filter out harmful UV rays. Look for the CE mark, proving they conform to the European Community Standard and they should also satisfy British Standard BSEN1836, meaning they will provide high levels of protection against damaging ultraviolet light.
- UV protection has nothing to do with lens colour. Look for sunglasses blocking 90-100% UVA and UVB light.
- Polarising lenses will reduce reflective glare from water and land surfaces, making them great for water sports or bright driving conditions.
- High-contrast lenses balance pitches of light, helping you see things more naturally.
- Wraparound styles protect your eyes and surrounding skin areas from peripheral sunlight.
Other facts to keep in mind
- Just like your skin, you can damage your eyes year-round and even on cloudy days.
- As with people with fair skin, people with lighter eyes are more susceptible to sun damage. Blue eyed individuals, can damage their eyes faster and it can be more severe.
- Remember that the sun can reflect off the sand and water, so be extra careful when you’re at the beach or near water.
- If you wear prescription glasses, ask to get your glasses coated with a UV-protected material.
- Even if you wear contacts that have sun protection, it’s still important to wear sunglasses.
High street shop offers Botox!!
1 March, 2011
I was horrified to read this morning that on Thursday this week the high street chain ‘Superdrug’ will be opening it’s doors to the public offering Botox and dermal filler treatments. Please read this article from the Daily Mail and be warned!
There are a few concerns I have, as do other professional providers.
- 15 minute consultations prior to providing treatments
Starting with their store in Kensington followed by Milton Keynes, Superdrug will offer 15 minute consultations prior to treatments. THIS IS CRAZY. Any professional provider will spend a minimum of half an hour with you, asking about your medical history and explaining the risks associated with the treatments. Every client needs to understand what is involved and what the consequences are.
- You get what you pay for
This is true in every walk of life and Botox and filler treatments are no different - If it seems too good to be true it generally is. ‘Having Botox is not like having a flu jab – it very much depends on the skill of the practitioner carrying out the procedure.’ – cosmetic surgeon Dr Prager
- £145 per area!??!
The profit margin are not great with Botox treatments and it does make me wonder how much Botox will be injected into each client. If inappropriately low quantities of product are used the results can be inferior and duration of the effect is significantly reduced.
Read the full article here and beware.
Simon Cowell admits to Botox
13 December, 2010
Simon Cowell, X-Factor creator and music producing legend, admits to Piers Morgan in a very candid interview that he has used Botox.
This is becoming an increasingly popular treatment amongst men for varying reasons. Be it a business decision or a personal one, men, Botox and many other cosmetic treatments are forming a close relationship more commonly that ever before.
There are fundamental differences between male and female treatments, that’s why all Oris doctors are fully trained in how to appreciate the differences of the male face to get the best results.
For more information on our full range of treatments for male clients please us on 0800 77 97 095 or visit our website
Botox approved for the prevention of chronic migraine
23 August, 2010
UK regulators approve treatment for migraine.
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BOTOX Anti-wrinkle Treatments
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Cosmetic Surgeons Want Surgery Adverts Banned
February 20th, 2012
Discount Botox – Professional Service
November 16th, 2011
Change your eye colour – is it possible?
November 16th, 2011
Botox comes to Witney
October 23rd, 2011