The cosmetic surgery industry has once again come under the spotlight with calls for greater independent regulation.

Aggressive marketing and cut-price treatments are the focus of current criticism; the recent PIP breast implant scandal was one example where cheaper surgery left patients disadvantaged and potentially at risk.

It is likely that greater regulation will drive up standards and side line those who engage in cosmetic practice with insufficient training or experience. Many patients would expect that treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers should be undertaken by practitioners who hold medical or nursing qualifications, working within a suitable clinical environment.

The advice to patients seeking cosmetic surgery has always been to select their surgeon carefully.

For more information see the advice provided by the Department of Health for patients considering cosmetic surgery.