Dermal filler and anti-wrinkle injections disasters have hit the news again recently. An article by The Times discussed the consequences of budget botox parties on theNHS. According to many leading plastic surgeons, there is a growing bill resulting from botched up cosmetic procedures performed by poorly trained and 'unqualified practitioners' on the high street and at so called 'Prosecco parties'.
Are You Facing the Risk of aDermal Filler Disaster?
Many young women are seeking cheaper alternatives to emulate the images of the likes of Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner. Far too often this ends up with a visit to the emergency clinic and a desperate plea for help. It is possible to get treatments such as dermal fillers and botox injections for budget prices but that is because the practitioner treating you will have little to no training.
Our Practice Principle,Dr Dan Rogers shared his opinion on the matter,
'The developing cultural trend for the use of dermal fillers is moving fast. Unfortunately its total lack of regulation is putting patients lives at risk. It is impossible to get a sound understanding of the medical techniques and knowledge base to safely administer dermal fillers or 'anti-wrinkle injections' simply by attending a weekend course.'
He continued with an overall piece of advice,
'My advice to anyone wanting dermal fillers would be to not shop around looking for a cheap deal but to seek a reputable medical professional with formal medical training.'
What are the Risks of Going Cheap?
So where can this lead to issues? Some people in the past have lost their sight due to fillers incorrectly being injected at the site of vital nerves by the eye. Others have found that their skin has turned a strange shadeof blue as well as developing into a swollen and disfigured appearance. These are just a few of the risks you may be facing by going down the low-cost route.
How regulated is the industry for fillers?
To get an idea of how regulated the industry really is, in the United States, there are only six types of dermal filler which are approved for use by professionals. To add to the protective measures, these all are available on prescription only. Now take a step over to Great Britain. Here you'll find that there are over 100 different types of dermal fillers approved and readily available. Not only this but they can all be injected without a prescription by anyone, in any location and with no training.
As a result of this it is probably not surprising to hear that there is so much danger in the industry. The general public expect that somebody offering these types of treatments would have been required by law to have the relevant training. Thats a key reason why so many people go through with treatment and end up with disastrous results.
The Role of Social Media
A second article was recently released by the BBC in which a study by Nuffield Council revealed that there are apps and games based around cosmetic surgery that are aimed at children as young as 9 years old.It is concerning to us that children so young are being targeted in an industry that is unregulated and as a clinic with full trained professionals, we feel the need to speak out.
As a respected clinic in Cardiff, we feel a duty to help our readers understand the risks involved with sourcing cheap treatments like this. We advise that before opting for any treatment you seek out all the information you can about your prospective practitioner. If they are not credible then we advise you to find a practitioner that is trained to give you the safest care and treatment possible.