BAPRAS joins Which? in fight against laser de-regulation

Media statement- 10 July 2008

Plastic surgeons call on the Government to re-evaluate its plans to scrap regulation of cosmetic laser treatments

The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) today joined Which? and other patient and professional organisations in opposing government plans to stop regulating cosmetic laser treatments from 1 October.

Chris Khoo, consultant plastic surgeon and member of BAPRAS said:
“Patient safety must always come first, and BAPRAS is concerned that proposed changes to the regulation of lasers will put patients at risk.

"All patients deserve to be protected by robust regulation. BAPRAS is concerned about the rapid growth of potentially harmful cosmetic treatments without proper regulation. We join Which? in urging the Government to reconsider its decision to scrap the introduction of a regulatory framework for cosmetic treatments and calls for a proper debate that puts patient safety at its centre.”

[ENDS]

About BAPRAS
www.bapras.org.uk

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.

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.