A group of dermatology surgeons have launched a public awareness campaign warning people against undertaking cosmetic surgery from less-skilled non-physicians performing the procedures.
The surgeons have cautioned that undergoing procedures like Botox injections, laser hair removal, microdermabrasion and chemical peels, which if performed by improperly trained personnel might result in scarring, burning and, even death in some cases.The American Society of Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), has reported that nearly 40% of its members have reported an growing number of patients who have been seeking second consults for treatment for the repair of the damage caused due to the substandard procedures performed by improperly trained individuals.
Dr. Renata Hirsch, a dermatologic surgeon in practice in Boston and the spokesperson for ASDS said, “What we're seeing is an overwhelming preponderance at this point of these untrained people getting their hands on these devices and using them.” She further added that the “Top offenders are these pseudo medi-spas.” She had even claimed at having examined cases where in colored people have suffered loss of pigmentation after undergoing a laser therapy from inexperienced personnel.
She mentioned that according to the ASDS, only a physician with expertise in dermatology should perform a cosmetic surgical procedure, rather than family practitioner or gynecologist. And also that it was mandatory that if the physician is only supervising the procedure, he or she should be on-site and available to respond to emergencies.
Hirsch had further advised people that to be wary of procedures that are being offered at cut-rate prices, she said, “This is just one of those times when you just don't want to get a bargain.” The ASDS has also advised, and cautioned that the patients wishing to undertake cosmetic surgery treatment should make it a point to enquire about the emergency procedures in case something goes wrong.
The group of surgeons have also explained that the people should ask about the training of a person performing the procedure, about any complication that could be associated with the procedure, and even ask if whether they could see before and after photographs of another patient who had undergone a similar procedure. Hirsch added, “If they react badly to you asking those questions, that should be a red flag.”
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Source-Medindia
VIK
