Non-Medical Practitioners Administering Aesthetic Injections
A new analysis reveals that over two-thirds of cosmetic practitioners (68%) administering aesthetic injections, such as Botox, in the UK are not qualified medical doctors. The study, conducted by researchers from the University College of London (UCL), highlights the need for improved regulation in the aesthetics injectables industry, where practitioners offer services like Botox and dermal fillers to reduce wrinkles and smooth facial lines. The diversity of practitioner backgrounds includes doctors (32%), nurses (13%), dentists (24%), and dental nurses (8%).
Competence and Safety Concerns
Dr. David Zargaran, a specialist at UCL plastic surgery and author of the study, emphasizes the fundamental principle of competence when administering these treatments. Practitioners must be competent in performing the procedures and able to recognize and treat potential complications, which can include blindness and paralysis. The study finds that practitioners from non-medical backgrounds, such as dental assistants, lack the understanding and training needed to manage such complications effectively.
Market Growth and Regulation Updates
The UK injectables market is rapidly expanding and projected to reach a value of £11.7 billion (€13.48 billion) by 2026. However, the market has outpaced regulations, prompting calls for updates to ensure safety and quality of services. The UK government plans to update its policy around cosmetic treatments, with a public consultation beginning in August, and recommendations expected to be included in the Medical Act by 2024.
Global Concerns and Call for Stricter Controls
The issue of unregulated cosmetic injectables is not unique to the UK. In France, over-the-counter dispensing of lip augmentation products in pharmacies has led to severe complications, prompting 200 aesthetic surgeons to call for a ban. Similar concerns have been raised in Spain, where unauthorized ‘clinics’ operate without accreditation. To address these issues, the Spanish Society of Aesthetic Medicine (SEME) introduced a digital seal for authorized clinics.
The Need for Competence and Awareness
To make the aesthetics injectables market safe, researchers assert the need for competence standards for practitioners. It is essential to ensure that qualified medical professionals perform these procedures, given the potential risks involved. Furthermore, public awareness and education are vital to empower individuals to choose reputable and accredited practitioners.
Enforcing international guidelines may be challenging due to variations in legal processes and jurisdictional boundaries. However, emphasizing fundamental principles and promoting public awareness can significantly contribute to the safety and quality of aesthetic injectables services worldwide.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Dr.Mune Gowda
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