New NHS guidance about cosmetic procedures
The NHS has recently published new guidance for patients considering cosmetic procedures. In an industry that is frequently tainted by stories of dodgy products, botched treatments and unqualified “practitioners”, we’re always happy to see any attempts to educate the general public and encourage them to make safer choices.
One of the main things that the guidance focuses on is the importance of finding a practitioner with the right training, skills, and insurance. Sounds obvious, but unfortunately, we know all too well that there are many people out there delivering treatments with unsuitable training, in unsafe environments and using fake or illegal products.
The NHS guidance covers all areas of cosmetic treatments, including surgery, cosmetic dentistry and non-surgical injectables. As an aesthetic clinic delivering the latter, here are the key points from the guidance that we think are important for patients to know;
Book a Consultation
- This is your chance to ask crucial questions before you commit to a treatment.
- It’s important to find out as much as possible about the treatment(s) being offered, including common complications, aftercare, follow up appointments and what to do if you're unhappy with the result.
- As well as finding out more about the treatment, this is also your opportunity to learn more about your practitioner. Ask them about their qualifications, experience, and whether they are registered with any professional associations.
Important Things to Avoid
The NHS also highlights several red flags to watch out for. To protect yourself, you should avoid:
- Paying before a consultation. Always have a consultation first to ensure the procedure is right for you.
- Group treatments or alcohol-related events. These environments can pressure you into making a quick decision.
- Online deals and discounts
- Mobile services taking place in non-clinical environments such as homes or hotels.
- Practitioners who only advertise on social media. This can be a sign that they lack a professional, established practice and they can be extremely difficult to track down if anything were to go wrong further down the line.
Important Things to Note about Botulinum Toxin (Botox)
- This is a prescription-only medicine, which must be prescribed after a consultation with a healthcare professional who holds a prescribing qualification. (eg a doctor or nurse)
- The person carrying out the Botox treatment does not have to be the prescriber, BUT, the prescriber must ensure the person giving the injections is trained and safe.
- Questions to ask: Who is the prescriber? Who is giving the treatment? What are their qualifications and insurance?
Important Things to Note about Dermal Fillers
- Fillers don't usually require a prescription, but complications can be serious and include infection, nerve damage and even blindness.
- Be sure to ask what is the name of the product being used and where did it come from?
- What are the practitioner's qualifications, training, and experience?
Here at Woodlands Medical, we know that our patients are in the safest possible hands! Saria is a fully trained RGN and Independent Nurse Prescriber, with extensive experience in aesthetic injectables. She's actually been working in the field of aesthetics for over FIFTEEN YEARS! For every patient, Saria conducts a thorough, medical consultation before treatment. This allows her to ensure that you’re safe and suitable for treatment and also allows YOU to ask any and all questions that you may have. You’ll never be pushed or rushed into anything and Saria will always give you her honest, professional opinion and guidance.
Want to know more? You can read the full NHS guidance here.
Ready to book a consultation with Saria? Click here!
