The Harley Street Journal

Bi-monthly newspaper for the cosmetic and plastic surgery sector

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Aesthetic Medicine ‘overwhelmingly a young and female issue’ reveals new survey

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Latest data from the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) reveals an overwhelming 88% of patients seen by aesthetic doctors and dentists in the last 12 months are female, with 21% of women patients less than 35 years of age. 

Most popular patient treatment choices are Botulinum Toxin, Dermal Fillers and Laser treatments.

This pooled data represents analysis of more than 225,000 individual treatment episodes reported by 270 medically qualified Aesthetic practitioners over the last year.

The survey results support the findings of market research company, Mintel, that 46% of Britons now believe non-surgical procedures are increasingly becoming a part of everyday beauty routines.

Mr Greg White, Chief Executive of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine, said: “The good news is women clearly feel confidence in accessing treatment from BCAM members, all trained medical professionals specialising in Aesthetic Medicine. Especially so since our field is still open to non-medical practitioners as well, with their tangle of professional registers and standards.

“Interestingly we are pleased to hear that many patients are especially seeking the help of our BCAM registered Doctors and Dentists for advice and treatment of complications made by practi-tioners outside BCAM.”

From the survey, 64% of BCAM doctors reported treating other practitioners’ Botox issues, with 77% reported treating other practitioners’ Dermal Filler complications, Of that, 25% of respondents reported treating laser/IPL problems and 25% thread lift problems.

White added: “Patient safety is paramount. Our survey identifies serious issues which need to be addressed, ideally through tighter regulation. But equally important must be what the survey says about the pressures of body image issues on young people, in particular young women.

“I support the Head of the NHS, Simon Stevens, in his recent comments that the NHS should not have to pick up the pieces of a mental illness crisis amongst young people as a result of body image pressure.’”

Dr Uliana Gout, BCAM Board and Director of PR & Media commented: “We are proud to release our annual BCAM Survey – one of the handful of global surveys focusing on our industry – highlighting the latest trends within the UK Aesthetic Medicine arena. 

“We hope this information will guide the evolution of this specialty and provide invaluable information both to the industry and patients alike.”

New meetings programme launched for CCR Expo

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CCR Expo is enhancing their visitor and exhibitor show experience by launching a new meetings programme for all attendees of CCR Expo 2019. 

CCR Connect is a free of charge networking feature that allows users to search through 1000’s of CCR Expo contacts and book 1-2- 1 meetings at the show.

Once registered, both visitors and exhibitors will be able to log in to an online matchmaking portal, build a personal pro le, browse 1,000’s of contacts by sectors and interests, and their schedule with meetings prior to the show.

Visit www.easyfairs.com/ccr-expo-2019 for more information. 

Instagram clamps down on cosmetic surgery posts

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Body positivity campaigners are celebrating after Instagram announced new rules for posts about weight loss products and cosmetic surgery.

Some posts will be hidden from under-18s while others promoting “miraculous” weight loss products will be removed. 

There have been increasing concerns over the impact promoting diet products can have on young people.

Actor and campaigner Jameela Jamil said the move was a “huge win” in the fight against the diet and detox industry.

How do the new changes work?

Unrealistic “get thin quick” promotions will be taken down and young people will be restricted from viewing some posts related to dieting and cosmetic surgery if they have an incentive to buy. 

Users will be able to report posts they think violate the policy, and Instagram will review them to decide whether they need to be restricted or taken down.

The changes will also apply to Facebook, which owns Instagram.

But the restrictions will only apply to users that Instagram knows are younger than 18 – and the app does not ask users for their date of birth when they sign up.

Instead, users signing up are simply asked to tick a box declaring themselves over 18 or not. If they sign up using a Facebook account, their age information is pulled from their Facebook profile – which is also not usually verified.

Why is Instagram changing?

There has been increasing concern over the effect the cosmetic and diet industry is having on people through the promotion of unrealistic goals.

In February, the medical director of National Health Service England, Stephen Powis, called for a ban on celebrity-endorsed social media ads promoting weight loss aids, stating that products were having a damaging effect on the physical and mental health of young people.

A BBC investigation found children swapping graphic images of weight loss and advice on how to make their illnesses more extreme were commonon the platform.

Emma Collins, Instagram’s public policy manager said: “We want Instagram to be a positive place for everyone that uses it and this policy is part of our ongoing work to reduce the pressure that people can sometimes feel as a result of social media.”

Advice had been sought from experts in the field of social media policy, she added.

Professor Chris Bunker wins Sir Archibald Gray Medal

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The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) is pleased to announce that Professor Chris Bunker, past-president of the BAD (2012-2014), is the winner of the 2019 Sir Archibald Gray Medal.

Named after the founder of the BAD, the Sir Archibald Gray Medal is awarded as the BAD’s ultimate accolade for outstanding services to dermatology.

Professor Bunker is a Consultant at the University College London Hospital. 

Love Island Lift: Show sparks rise in bum lifts

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Enquiries into skin firming Lipofirm Pro treatments TRIPLE thanks to the ITV2 show

Non-surgical bum lifts are on the rise as a result of TV’s Love Island, according to a top UK cosmetic clinic.

Perfect Skin Solutions, based in Portsmouth, says its seen THREE TIMES more enquiries into the bum lifting and skin firming treatment Lipofirm Pro since the popular dating show hit the air this year.

Offering results in just 30-minutes, the ‘Love Island Lift’ is proving popular with young women keen to emulate their favourite female stars from the show, who spent most episodes showcasing their pert bottoms in colourful bikinis.

Dr Dev Patel Dr. Dev Patel, Medical Director and Cosmetic Doctor at Perfect Skin Solutions, says the Love Island Lift – as it’s been humorlessly coined at the aesthetics clinic – is currently one of the most requested non-surgical body contouring treatments and is down to the show’s bikini-sporting stars, like winner Amber Davies.

“There’s no doubt this TV show is behind the surge in women requesting skin firming and bum lift treatments. Since the start of the show in June the clinic has seen increasingly more enquiries for our Lipofirm Pro treatment, so much so we’ve named it the Love Island Lift. In just half an hour we can firm skin and lift the bottom, making it ideal for pre-holiday beautification,” says Dr Dev Patel.

So how does the Love Island Lift work?

Already loved by celebrities including Katie Price and Kerry Katona, the Lipofirm Pro bum lift uses two patented technologies which work synergistically in reducing fat and giving a lift/skin tightening effect to the buttocks; TriLipo with Dynamic Muscle Activation and TriPollar Radio-Frequency. The device from AES is totally non surgical, there’s zero recover time, and most patients can see a lifted result after the first session.

Dr Patel continues: “TriLipo technology has certainly got industry professionals and clients equally excited, particularly in relation to bum lifts. Usually to achieve a good non-surgical lift, one needs to address any pockets of excess fat but also redundant skin. Lipofirm Pro helps with this aim by reducing fat; the heating of the dermis then results in collagen fibres contracting and giving a tightening and lifting effect to the butt. The heat also stimulates fibroblasts (cells that make collagen) into working harder to produce new collagen. New collagen means healthier, fresher and tighter skin, so you could be bikini ready in no time – and it’s all thanks to the Love Island Lift.”

6518921_xxlAfter a thorough medical consultation with a suitably trained and qualified professional photographs and measurements would be taken to give a clear picture of the starting point. Lifestyle advice should also be provided at this point. Once comfortable on the treatment couch, treatment can commence.

This is a painless and relatively quick procedure as both patented technologies are delivered simultaneously via the same on skin applicator. A ‘deep circular motion’ technique is used so although it should be painless, I would say it is not as relaxing as a spa facial but at least you might shed an inch or two!

Other benefits of this treatment over other non-surgical methods are that more than one area can be treated at the same appointment and weekly treatments can be performed, thus making overall treatment time shorter.

For more informaton about Lipofirm Pro visit www.advancedestheticssolutions.co.uk 

FACEGYM Launches Flagship Store on Kings Road

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FACEGYM is delighted to announce the launch of their first stand-alone store on the Kings Road on Friday 9th December.

The new flagship store will feature FACEGYM’s pioneering Open Beauty Lab concept; a mixologist led skincare bar designed to connect the consumer directly with natural ingredients, putting them in the driving seat of the creation of their personalised skincare routine.

A full menu will be on offer using their famous face lifting techniques paired with state-of-the-art technology, including lasers, ultrasound, radio frequency and CRYO therapy to help sculpt, life and tone the face.

The brand uses recycled packaging and source 100% natural and sustainable products.

Vida Aesthetics Launch Ozonetherapy for anti-ageing in the UK

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Pioneering non-invasive treatment uses OXYGEN to offer both aesthetic and medical solutions

Smooth lines and wrinkles and rejuvenate the skin from the inside out with the latest arrival on the advanced aesthetics scene. Introducing Ozonetherapy!

With its roots fully placed in the medicinal arena, Ozonetherapy is now available in the UK as an anti-ageing treatment, and is set to take the cosmetic and beauty industry by storm this autumn.

Offering a wide range of action in surgery, pain management, dermatology, urology, and even internal medicine, it would be strange if Ozonetherapy was not be put into use in cosmetology – one of the most progressive fields of its application.

In methods of skin rejuvenation, treatment with Ozonetherapy particular attention is paid to improvement of microcirculation, oxygenation, energy supply of cells, and protection of the dermis. Many cosmetic problems – acne, teleangiectatic rosacea, wrinkles, allergy, cellulite etc – are reflecting the internal state of the skin, therefore they should be treated not only from the outside, but also inside.

This can be successfully done by Ozonetherapy; producing a detoxication, antimicrobial, antiviral effect and increasing the skin’s immunity in the form of carboxytherapy.

Ozone itself is a unique oxygen-based agent, preserving and restoring the natural beauty and health of skin. Ozonetherapy does not mask defects of skin, but normalises its natural functions and stimulates its own work.

The mechanism of action of Ozonetherapy can be demonstrated on the example of its use within a complex program for skin rejuvenation. Skin aging can be inhibited, and skin structure can be restored through the neutralisation of pathological processes – such as the inevitable destruction of vital collagen fibres – thereby reducing the formation of wrinkles.

Unlike Botox or fillers, Ozone is a natural substance which produces a complex, integral effect on the human body. For treatment of “problem” skin and wrinkles it is recommended to use the methods of local and systemic Ozonetherapy. The approach to treatment and choice of methods are strictly individual for each patient.

Pioneering this skin rejuvenation treatment is Eddy Emilio, Director of Vida Aesthetics. He says:

“The essential difference of Ozonetherapy from other cosmetic remedies and treatments for ageing of the face, hands and décolletage is its dual action from the outside and inside of the skin, that leads to oxygenation, moisturising, improved collagen health and the protection and restoration of skin. Used for many years in sports medicine, chronic pain management, and even gynaecology, we know it’s a versatile, reliable and safe method for men and women looking to improve their skin health from the inside out.”

Strengthen your skin from within, with Ozonetherapy from Vida Aesthetics. Treatment starts from £200 per session with a course recommended for maximum results.

For more information, visit www.vida-aesthetics.com.

40% of Brits considering cosmetic surgery

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Words: Rosie Wilson

According to a recent survey of 2,000 people, four in ten British adults are considering undergoing cosmetic surgery. The research, which was commissioned by legal firm Irwin Mitchell, also found that the main motivators for seeking cosmetic surgery were to look like a celebrity, to boost confidence or to increase chances of finding a partner.

Of the procedures the respondents found most appealing, the top five were: breast augmentation; rhinoplasty; cosmetic dentistry; breast uplift and brachioplasty.

Mandy Luckman, a specialist cosmetic surgery lawyer with the firm, said:

“Almost everyone has things they would like to change about their appearance, but only some that would seriously consider going through with cosmetic surgery.”

“Most can understand people wanting to have surgery to help improve something they dislike about their appearance or to boost confidence.”

Lumie Clear’s ‘See the Difference’ campaign enjoys success

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Lumie Clear, a hand-held light therapy device for treating acne, is achieving excellent results with their ‘See The Difference’ campaign. Lumie Clear is a product of Cambridge-based light therapy company Lumie, and is designed to gently treat mild to moderate acne.

According to the NHS, 80% of 11-30 year olds will be affected by acne, although it can be a lifelong problem. Lumie Clear was developed at Hammersmith Hospital, with the help of the research team of leading dermatologist Dr. Tony Chu. It is the only light therapy device that offers combined blue and red light therapy – which treats the cause of acne whilst reducing skin inflammation simultaneously.

Dr. Chu found that patients with moderate acne reported a 76% improvement in inflammation and a 58% improvement in the number of spots within 12 weeks.

The ‘See the Difference’ campaign has seen people trial the product, and enjoy improved skin quality as a result. Daisy Dykes, one of the trialists, said of the treatment:

“Lumie Clear is continuing to help my skin and I am feeling very positive. My skin feels smooth in texture and no itchiness or redness. I definitely recommend Lumie Clear – it’s a hassle-free solution and easy to bring into your normal skincare routine.”

Dr. Rakesh Patalay, a Consultant Dermatologist, said:

“Acne is not just a teenage condition. We are seeing increasing numbers of older people with the condition and persistent acne can have a large impact on your quality of life. Lumie Clear can be used by anyone without prescription and is complementary to other treatments.”

Lumie Clear retails at £149 and is sold in Boots, Tesco and Amazon. For more information, please visit www.lumieclearskin.co.uk

BAPRAS launches new awareness campaign

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By Rosie Wilson

Think Over Before You Make Over, the new initiative that has launched nationwide today, aims to educate potential patients about making a balanced decision on cosmetic surgery.

The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) is calling on healthcare professionals across the country to support their campaign and raise awareness for the need for careful consideration prior to undergoing a cosmetic procedure. The campaign has come on the back of a survey conducted by BAPRAS, which found that thousands of people are putting themselves at risk after not taking the proper precautions before having cosmetic surgery.

The survey found that 2 million people will be considering or undergoing cosmetic surgery in the next year, but that almost a quarter of these (24%) will not check their surgeons credentials and ensure that they are properly qualified to conduct their procedure. More shockingly still, the survey revealed that 21% of all patients aren’t fully aware of the risks associated with their treatment, and a further 22% aren’t even sure of the potential outcomes of their procedure before going ahead with it.

The survey also revealed more than half of patients (51%) who rush through the process and have surgery less than two weeks after their initial consultation are actually less confident with their appearance afterwards.

BAPRAS identified a list of influences on people undertaking the decision to have cosmetic surgery, with over half of patients (53%) citing celebrity treatments as one of the reasons it makes it more aspirations. Furthermore, 45% of respondents claimed they felt social pressure to undergo surgery, and 51% felt that marketing from clinics made them more likely to consider a treatment.

The campaign aims to help anyone who is considering surgery to assess whether it is the right choice for them, and includes a range of free guides from some of the UK’s most experienced plastic surgeons and practitioners. BAPRAS says the best way for individual practitioners and clinics to show support for the campaign is to display the campaign logo on their website or in their surgeries.

BAPRAS president and consultant plastic surgeon, Nigel Mercer, said:

“Cosmetic surgery is not something to be taken lightly and yet thousands of people are putting themselves at serious risk by rushing into major procedures recklessly, without consideration for their own safety. In fact, many people spend more time choosing an electrician then they do a surgeon. Think Over Before You Make Over is not here to promote cosmetic surgery; we recognise that thousands of people will choose to have surgery this year and we want all these people to read our campaign advice so they can make informed choices and protect themselves from bad practice.”

For more information about the campaign, please visit: www.bapras.org.uk/thinkover