BAPRAS reiterates warning to patients of risks of travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery
MEDIA STATEMENT- 24 October 2014
The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) today warns patients of the risks of travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery following the death of woman in Thailand who underwent a procedure performed by ‘unqualified doctor’.
Graeme Perks, a consultant plastic surgeon and BAPRAS president, says:
“We are saddened to hear the news that a women has died following a botched cosmetic surgery procedure abroad.
“Given the risks, BAPRAS advises patients against travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery unless you are sure of your safety – whilst it can look like a cheap deal, it could lead to serious health and financial consequences if things go wrong.
“If you are considering cosmetic surgery, we recommend you contact a fully qualified surgeon registered as a specialist with the General Medical Council for Plastic Surgery who can provide you with a proper consultation and advice, and allow you adequate time to make an informed decision based on the identified risks and benefit.”
BAPRAS advises that any patients still considering cosmetic surgery overseas need to know:
• The surgeon’s experience in cosmetic surgery
• That the hospital and surgeon are regulated to the same standards as in the UK
• What follow-up arrangements there are with the surgeon
• The procedure’s complication rates
• That you will not be covered by regular travel insurance for cosmetic surgery overseas. You will need specialist insurance
• What medical insurance arrangements are in place if a health problem arises after surgery
• That any complications arising once you have returned to the UK will probably mean that you have to travel back to the overseas clinic for correction of any problems
• That treating any complications arising from the surgery may incur a cost – the NHS will only provide emergency treatment and not provide any corrective surgery for poor cosmetic outcomes
• That private hospitals and surgeons in the UK will require a deposit of the full amount of any corrective surgery because they will be taking over professional responsibility for your care
• That it is difficult to obtain financial compensation following unsatisfactory cosmetic surgery outcomes from foreign clinics and surgeons
Members of the public can find a member plastic surgeon in their area by logging on to www.bapras.org.uk. Anyone can check the GMC to find out if a surgeon is on the plastic surgery specialist register: http://www.gmc-uk.org/register/search/index.asp
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About BAPRAS
BAPRAS, the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, is the voice of plastic surgery in the UK. It aims to increase the understanding of the professional specialty and scope of plastic surgery, promoting innovation in teaching, learning and research.
Founded in 1946 (originally as the British Association of Plastic Surgeons), today BAPRAS has over 800 members and is the professional representative body for reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgeons providing services to patients on the NHS and privately in the UK.
About the ‘Sun, Sea, Sand and Silicone’ research report
• 103 British, Chinese and Australian patients and 36 international surgeons were interviewed as part of the research
• For more information visit: www.ssss.leeds.ac.uk