- Majority of Cosmetic Injections Administered by Non-Physicians in the UK
- Concerns Raised Over Competence and Consent of Practitioners
- Calls for Effective Regulation to Protect Patients from Complications
Botox injections and dermal fillers are administered by non-physicians in the United Kingdom, according to the findings of a groundbreaking survey.
A new study suggests that more than two-thirds of those who administer cosmetic surgery injections in the United Kingdom are not qualified medical physicians.
Dentists and nurses are among those who administer Botox and dermal fillers, according to the findings of the nation’s first-ever survey of those who administer injectable cosmetic services.
After investigating 3,000 websites for cosmetic surgery, 1,163 (32%) doctors were identified, of whom 41% were specialists and 19% were general practitioners.
While other healthcare professions such as nurses accounted for 13% of the workforce, dentists made up 24% and dental nurses 8%.
The injectables market is expected to reach a value of £11.7 billion by 2026, but it is presently largely unregulated because little is known about the backgrounds of practitioners.
Dr. David Zargaran, the author of the study published in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, stated that the variety of practitioner backgrounds raises broader concerns regarding “competence and consent.
“Our research demonstrates that the majority of practitioners are non-physicians, including non-healthcare professionals like beauticians,” he said.
“One of the greatest challenges facing the government’s licensing program is ensuring that practitioners granted a license have the necessary skills and experience to administer their treatment safely and minimize patient risks.”
The findings come as the government prepares to revise the injectables policy and as a public consultation on the industry is scheduled to commence next month.
The findings come as the government prepares to revise the injectables policy also as a public consultation on the industry is scheduled to commence next month.
In 2024, amendments to the Medical Act may be influenced by recommendations.
Professor Julie Davies, co-author of the study, stated, “Our findings should serve as a wake-up call for legislators to implement effective regulation and professional standards to protect patients from complications.”
“Although the risks associated with injections are typically mild and transient, the physical complications can be permanent and incapacitating.
When procedures fail, there are also severe psychological, emotional, and financial consequences for patients.
A second study by the same authors, published earlier this month, revealed that 69% of respondents had experienced long-lasting adverse effects, including pain, anxiety, and discomfort.
