Face facts
Considering a cosmetic procedure? Be sure to do your research first
botox ® , fillers, lasers, liposuction…
The steady growth in the cosmetic procedure market, offering an increasing choice of treatments, means it’s more important than ever that, if you’re thinking about having anything done, you arm yourself with all the facts so you can make a fully informed decision. Remember that there are potential risks to your health and wellbeing – both physical and emotional – with any procedure, whether surgical or non-surgical.
So where do you start? Of paramount importance is the practitioner you choose. As an absolute minimum, they should be qualified, reputable and trained in your specific treatment. Look for someone who is either a regulated healthcare professional (such as a doctor or nurse) or registered with a body overseen by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
Invasive cosmetic surgery can only be performed by doctors registered with the General Medical Council, but for procedures such as Botox® and fillers – which require a high degree of skill and competence – it’s crucial to thoroughly check out the qualifications and experience of the practitioner. Remember too that, although Botox® is a prescription-only medicine, dermal fillers can be obtained without a prescription, so make sure you ask questions about which product is being used and where it came from.
Before committing to anything, have a full and frank discussion – ideally face-to-face – with your chosen professional, about exactly what will happen before, during and after the treatment. This should include what your expectations of the outcome are, any possible risks and side effects and, crucially, how to obtain aftercare advice and support if anything does go wrong. Be clear about what you want and don’t be tempted to agree to any additional treatments you hadn’t previously considered. If you have any doubts at all, walk away; this is not something to make impulse decisions about. Do your homework, stay safe. Visit nhs.uk/cosmetic-procedures for more information