Plastic surgeons back call for better regulation in cosmetic surgery

Media Statement- 16 September 2010

The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) welcomes ‘On the face of it’, the report from the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD) reviewing organisational structures surrounding cosmetic surgery in the UK.

Commenting on the report, Simon Kay, consultant plastic surgeon and member of BAPRAS said:

“The NCEPOD report concurs with almost every initiative we have championed over the last 10 years. As the statutory body for education and training in plastic surgery, we are completely committed to safety and excellence and have led the call for better regulation in cosmetic surgery. We continue to support the need for a robust framework that will protect every patient and ensure excellence and safety in clinical delivery of cosmetic surgery.

“Cosmetic surgery is safe and effective when carried out by well trained surgeons in comprehensively equipped and staffed environments, upon suitably selected and well informed patients. It is unacceptable if these conditions are not provided to everyone seeking cosmetic surgery. If individuals have any concerns, we can be contacted for advice through our website www.bapras.org.uk.” 

[Ends]

About BAPRAS
BAPRAS, the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, 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 nearly 800 members and is the official professional representative body for reconstructive and  aesthetic plastic surgeons providing services to patients on the NHS and privately in the UK.

Members of the public can find a member plastic surgeon in their area by logging on to www.bapras.org.uk. The GMC specialist register can be checked to find out if a surgeon is on the plastic surgery specialist register; www.gmc-uk.org/register/search/index.asp