Spire Manchester Hospital today announces that it is witness to an increase in the number of cosmetic surgery procedures carried out over the last few years. This is indicative of the growth in the UK cosmetic surgery industry as a whole, with the market predicted to increase by a further 52% in the next four years[i].
With the UK continuing to be a growth market and with the Government still considering deregulation of cosmetic laser treatment, Manchester is becoming increasingly vulnerable to ‘cowboy’ practitioners and foreign clinics who are luring patients with cut-price surgery offers and minimal waiting times. Irresponsible advertising is also a cause for concern; please see http://www.baaps.org.uk/content/view/405/62/ for further details.
Spire Manchester Hospital is warning people that purchasing purely on cost could put them unnecessarily at risk. The hospital is witness to a growing number of people who are having corrective surgery after having botched operations abroad or at the hands of cut-price clinics. Spire [Hospital] is subsequently advising patients not to be driven by cost and to thoroughly research the procedure, the surgeon and the hospital prior to purchase.
Mr. David Whitby, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Spire Manchester Hospital comments:
“Patients may believe that they are saving money, but this is outweighed by both the financial and health implications if things go wrong. It is very difficult to judge a surgeon’s qualifications just by looking at a website. A BAAPS recognised surgeon has a commitment to care for the patients and to provide adequate follow up after any procedure. This means that in the event of potential complications, patients will benefit from a continuity of care.”
Below is Mr. David Whitby’s advice to patients on what to look for when considering cosmetic surgery:
- Don’t be swayed by glossy advertising. Make sure that you know your surgeon, their qualifications and the facility in which they practice. It is important to look for consultants who have a proven track history in performing a certain procedure.
- All treatments should be carried out in recognized facilities with properly trained clinicians. Ensure that your surgeon is on the specialist register with the General Medical Council and has undergone recognised training. A member of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) or the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) will be an accredited consultant plastic surgeon and will have a commitment to care for their patients and to provide proper follow up and after care.
- Proper consultation is vital. Before rushing into surgery, patients must get to know their surgeon. The surgeon needs to take a full medical history and assess the patient carefully in order to choose the most suitable procedure. Fully accredited and medically trained practitioners follow a code of practice that ensures patients have all the information about the procedure, the complications that may arise and what they are likely to expect during surgery.
- Meet the team. Get an idea of where you’ll be going and its surroundings and ask the surgeon if you can meet the team who will be looking after you. It is important that you gain a visual perspective of where you’ll be staying and who’ll be caring for you.
- Follow-up facilities need to be available at all times should problems occur. Complications, no matter how uncommon, can happen even in the best hands. It is important to be prepared and understand what free support is available. Reputable surgeons are committed to following patient care for at least twelve months post-surgery.
[i] Keynotes Mar 2008 Cosmetic Surgery report
