procedures

Some cosmetic procedures, such as Botox injections, don''t involve surgery, but that doesn''t mean they''re risk-free. Here is the most important information about these procedures. Non-surgical cosmetic procedures include the use of certain products, such as botulinum toxin (Botox), or various techniques that will make the skin smoother, or reduce marks and wrinkles on the skin, and there are operations aimed at changing the appearance of the teeth, such as making them more whiter or straighter.

If you are considering some cosmetic procedures, you should know several things, such as: what these procedures involve, what are the risks and how much they cost. Ask about the qualifications and experience of the person who will perform it for you, to find out if he is qualified and suitable or not.

What non-surgical treatments are available?

There are several procedures available, including

Muscle paralysis - such as Botox injections to relax facial muscles, reducing the visibility of lines and wrinkles.

Dermal fillers are injected into wrinkles with the aim of filling them in.

Chemical Peel - Chemicals are used to remove the outermost layer of skin cells.

Microdermabrasion - Uses tiny crystals and suction to remove dead skin cells.

Non-surgical laser and intense light treatments - eg, laser hair removal.

Some of these cosmetic procedures may leave the treated area tender or red for days or weeks.

Where can I safely do a non-surgical procedure?

Some types of these procedures, such as teeth whitening, can be done safely in dental offices.

Injectable cosmetic procedures (such as Botox) should be performed by trained physicians, qualified pharmacists and dentists, or registered nurses in a clinical setting, and should not be performed by plastic surgeons who lack the necessary clinical background.

How do I know if the action taker qualifies for this?

It is important to deal with a reputable and suitably qualified medical practitioner.

The British Quality Care Commission (CQC) says you could be at risk of harm from procedures if not carried out properly, so it is important to research these procedures, who is providing them and who will carry them out.

Nurses must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

Doctors and dermatologists must be registered with the General Medical Council.

Pharmacists must be registered with the General Council for Medicines.

Dentists must be registered with the General Dental Council.

What are the risks of non-surgical procedures?

“Non-surgical procedures usually involve fillers or botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, so they carry fewer risks than surgical procedures,” says Professor Simon Kay, Consultant Plastic Surgeon and Member of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (BAPRAS). However, overcorrection, as well as uneven placement of skin mobilization and sensitivity, can be difficult to treat.

"It is advised to inquire about what might be done if any of these things occur, and to discuss sensitivity and other potential complications of such procedures," Kay added.

Professor Kay notes that manufacturers usually include patient leaflets, which should include these points, and risks can be reduced by choosing a reputable surgeon or nurse practitioner who works in a clinical setting.

Do I need to see a doctor before injecting Botox?

Yes, and prescribers are cautioned against prescribing cosmetic injections by phone, fax, video link or online. This means that prescribers have to meet patients face-to-face before prescribing Botox and other injectable cosmetics, such as Dysport or Vistabel, to ensure they fully understand the patient''s medical history and reasons for wanting treatment.

Safety list

“There is no doubt that the spectrum of cosmetic procedures is expanding, however, such a fast-growing market often leads to malpractice, and we encourage everyone to consider In their safety when choosing the right doctor.”

Sally offers a five-point safety checklist to make sure you''re getting treatment from the right person:

Qualifications: Verify the qualifications of the practicing physician. Only appropriately qualified physicians, dentists, pharmacists, and registered nurses are able to provide injectable cosmetic treatments.

Job Title: Don''t be fooled by unusual or unrecognizable job titles, such as “esthetician/practitioner.” When you check qualifications, make sure the title of doctor, dentist, or registered nurse actually applies to the person holding the needle.

Training: Practitioners need training in a variety of areas to administer injectable cosmetic treatments. These include how to deal with severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) and other adverse reactions to treatment.

Setting: Treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers should only take place in a clean, safe, and appropriate medical environment. To avoid infection and permanent physical harm, treatment should not take place at home, or, for example, in a nail salon or tattoo parlour, but rather in a medical facility.

Substance: Whilst Botox is a prescription drug, dermal fillers are not currently treated as such in the UK and can be purchased from various retail outlets, as well as online. While this is illegal, people are advised to be very careful when handling any cosmetic injections. Some types of dermal fillers are permanent and can be dangerous when used in the wrong way. It is also recommended not to buy cosmetic injections from the Internet at all.

What if I feel unwell after the operation?

If you have had a non-surgical procedure and start to feel unwell, get medical help.

Prof Kay says: ''Health is the first priority, so if you have any troublesome symptoms, such as a rash, fever, swelling or increased pain, go to your doctor or the emergency department.'' He added: ''Less urgent problems should be dealt with. By the medical practitioner who administered the substance or treatment. It will require the doctor’s involvement if that fails to resolve the matter.”