ONE of the country’s leading cosmetic surgeons has shared four key ways safety could be improved in the sector.
Dr Manish Sinha’s roadmap comes in the wake of a number of shocking stories involving operations that have led to patients dying.
Earlier this month mother-of-five, Alice Webb, 33, died after undergoing a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure.
Ms Webb passed away at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital in the early hours of 24 September when she suffered complications following the BBL procedure, which involved cosmetic fluid being injected into her buttocks.
In another case, a British woman died in Turkey after a surgeon left halfway through an operation.
Hayley Dowell, 38, suffered medical complications at a private clinic after she had a BBL, tummy tuck, and liposuction in October last year.
She had the three surgeries as part of a package that cost more than £7,000 after she and Neil Dowell, her husband, did research to find a Turkish clinic.
Cosmetic surgeon Dr Manish Sinha said there are a number of areas where patient safety could be better protected.
He said: “Plastic surgery should reflect care, precision, and responsibility to enhance lives safely. Improved regulation, structured training, and informed patient choices can foster a system that prioritises safety at every level.
“Safety doesn’t lie solely with regulators or practitioners; patients must also play an active role by thoroughly researching their options, understanding the risks, and following proper aftercare protocols.”
Here Dr. Sinha outlines the four areas he feels require urgent attention to enhance safety standards in plastic surgery.
Strengthening Regulatory Mechanisms
“The UK’s regulatory framework is among the most stringent globally, but gaps persist. A significant concern is the lack of clarity between GMC-registered doctors and those listed on the specialist register for plastic surgery. While both are licensed to practise, only the latter have undergone extensive training and specialisation. Another pressing issue is the unregulated nature of non-surgical procedures. Aesthetic injectors and non-medical practitioners often operate with minimal training, endangering patient safety. Even within regulated spaces, some surgeons offering procedures fail to meet specialist-level qualifications. These inconsistencies make it challenging for patients to identify truly qualified professionals.”
Building a Foundation of Excellence
“The cornerstone of plastic surgery safety lies in training and certification. In the UK, surgeons undergo over 14 years of education and hands-on experience, including medical school, residency, and fellowships, before independently performing cosmetic procedures. This rigorous pathway sets a global benchmark for professional development.
However, the discontinuation of specialised fellowships such as the JCST Interface Fellowships has created gaps in advanced training. Reviving these programmes, alongside introducing new fellowships tailored to complex procedures like rhinoplasty, face lifts and neck lifts, post massive weight loss body contouring surgery, breast aesthetic surgery or gluteal fat transfer, is essential for developing skilled professionals.
The Role of Patients in Ensuring Safety
“While regulatory bodies and practitioners bear significant responsibility, patients also play a crucial role in maintaining safety standards. Pre-operative, operative, and post-operative care all require active participation from the patient to minimise risks and ensure successful outcomes.
Before Surgery:
- Verify the surgeon’s credentials using trusted resources such as the GMC Specialist Register or BAAPS directory.
- Avoid relying solely on social media or flashy advertisements when selecting a clinic.
During the Procedure:
- Ensure the chosen clinic is CQC-approved and adheres to recognised safety protocols.
- Confirm the surgeon’s expertise in performing the specific procedure.
After Surgery:
- Follow all aftercare instructions, including prescribed medications and activity restrictions.
- Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to address any complications promptly.
Addressing the Risks of Medical Tourism
A study by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) revealed a 44% increase in patients requiring corrective surgery in the UK due to complications from cosmetic procedures performed abroad. This shows that medical tourism remains a growing concern, particularly for patients travelling to countries such as Turkey to undergo procedures at lower costs.
These trips often involve high-risk patients with high BMI or pre-existing conditions, who would typically be refused surgery in the UK. In many cases, patients undergo multiple procedures in a single trip, increasing the likelihood of complications such as infections, wound dehiscence, and even sepsis.
The burden of treating these complications often falls on the NHS, creating a cycle that strains healthcare resources. In addition to mandating insurance, the UK government could also invest in public awareness campaigns. These initiatives would educate patients about the risks of low-cost surgeries abroad, including poor hygiene standards, unqualified practitioners, and inadequate aftercare.
Mandatory insurance would not only alleviate the financial strain on the NHS but also act as a deterrent to high-risk decisions made in pursuit of lower costs.
Image Source: Unsplash
