Summary of cosmetic interventions call for evidence responses published

Summary of cosmetic interventions call for evidence responses published:
The responses to the cosmetic surgery review call for evidence have been published today. The call for evidence was issued to enable the public, cosmetic interventions industry and patient groups to contribute to NHS Medical Director Sir Bruce Keogh’s review of the regulation of cosmetic interventions.

While there were a wide range of views on the future regulation of cosmetic interventions, some consistent key messages emerged from respondents:

• the current regulatory framework was inconsistent and did not reflect the many changes and innovations in such a fast-growing and dynamic sector
• training requirements were felt by many to be disproportionately weak compared to the potential risks of a procedure and more specialised training was welcomed
• dermal fillers and intense pulsed light and laser procedures were highlighted by many as an area where there was insufficient legislation to protect the public
• respondents were concerned about the lack of data being collected on implants, procedures, adverse incidents and outcomes
• the Review was timely and an important part of restoring public trust in the cosmetic interventions sector following the issues with PIP breast implants

Suggestions that respondents wanted to see implemented include:

• banning free consultations for cosmetic surgery so that people don’t feel obliged to go through with surgical procedures
• ensuring consultations are with a medical professional, not a sales adviser
• imposing tighter restrictions on advertising including banning two-for-one, time limited deals and cosmetic surgery as competition prizes
• requiring a two-stage written consent for surgery so people have time to reflect before making a decision
• providing better information for patients including photos of expected bruising and scarring, and more detail on the risks associated with surgery

Read Review of the Regulations of Cosmetic Interventions: Summary of the responses to the Call for Evidence
The summary cannot cover in detail all the responses or reflect all the perspectives put forward, nor is it intended to present an indication of the Review Committee’s emerging recommendations. However, all responses have been analysed in depth and the data and evidence supplied will be used to inform the final recommendations, which are due to be published at the end of March.
The Review of the Regulation of Cosmetic Interventions was set up by the Secretary of State for Health following the PiP breast implant scandal.
See Terms of Reference of the Review Committee Department of Health