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News

New BAAPS report reveals 44% increase in complications from cosmetic surgery abroad

April 25, 2022 by CarlFrascina

A recent study from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) has revealed a staggering 44% rise in complications from cosmetic surgery abroad.

Over the past two three years, the Covid-19 pandemic and the so called “Zoom Boom” has increased the demand for aesthetic procedures, leading patients to seek cheaper deals abroad. Unfortunately, this has resulted in BAAPS seeing an increase in patients needing correctional surgery, leading the organisation to call for compulsory insurance to ease the burden on an already strained NHS.

The audit showed that around 324 patients in the past four years have sought correctional procedures after returning to the UK. This is a sharp rise compared to 2019, when the pandemic began to unfold, and patients were advised against elective surgery and unnecessary travel.

In 2021, following a cosmetic procedure abroad 75 women and 7 men were treated in the UK for complications, including life threatening conditions such as debridement of dead skin tissue, and admission to intensive care for life support following systemic infection. Despite treatment, these complications would still leave permanent, and life changing physical deformities along with the psychological effects of these injuries.

Hagen Schumacher, a leading Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Adore Life says:

“These statistics are alarming and prove that sometimes cheaper can prove more expensive. Of course, there are several reasons why patients might choose to travel abroad for plastic surgery, but the most common reason I find is price. It’s often a cheaper to undergo cosmetic procedures abroad, because here in the UK the NHS rarely funds cosmetic procedures so patients must seek desired treatments privately, which can be costly.”

A survey of BAAPS council members showed that 100% of complications came from Turkey and that abdominoplasty accounted for 75% of complications, followed by breast surgery procedures at 25%. 

“It is important to remember that all surgery comes with a risk of potential complications.” says Hagen.

“Whilst it may be cheaper to undergo a procedure abroad, it may also increase the risk of a complication developing, particularly after certain procedures such  as tummy tucks that carry higher risks.

“In the event of any issues, follow up care is usually included after surgery in the UK, so the surgeon can check everything is healing as it should, and provide any additional care. 

“Abroad, the clinic may not have such a procedure in place, and it is often up to the individual if they want to travel back to their surgeon or see a UK-based surgeon instead. Both come at considerable costs and added up, this often exceeds the costs of UK-based treatment.”

The BAAPS survey reveals that many patients who have experienced complications are treated on an already strained NHS. One study presented to BAAPS in 2017 suggested the average cost to the NHS per patient was £13,500, this figure is now estimated to be closer to £15,000. Many also require private treatment, which when added up works out more expensive than undergoing the procedure in the UK.

Hagen says: “Another factor that can greatly increase the risk of complication is travel. Flying within a week of a cosmetic procedure can greatly increase the chances of developing blood clots, which could lead to deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism with a potentially fatal outcome.

“Many plastic surgeons recommend waiting for 2-6 weeks following surgery to reduce this risk which is often not possible when having surgery abroad.”

When seeking cosmetic procedures abroad, research is crucial. The healthcare system in the UK is very strict compared to some other countries. All medical professionals, including plastic surgeons are held to incredibly high standards and the cost to practice equally as high. To provide a safe, top-quality service, plastic surgeons must pay high insurance fees, undergo regular training sessions, and register with several professional bodies such as the General Medical Council or the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

Antonia Mariconda, Founder of Safety in Beauty, a UK organisation founded to raise awareness of unsafe activities within aesthetics adds: “Not all cosmetic tourism is bad. The safety standards and regulations in the UK are actually very similar in other countries; the danger lies in lack of research.

“Background research is so incredibly important. Patients need to understand exactly how the healthcare system in the country they have chosen is regulated and the level of training the professionals undergo before practicing. Besides the regulations, patients often do not get a chance to visit the facility ahead of treatment to check it is safe, clean and they would feel comfortable in that environment.”

Hagen adds: “It is not only the UK that hold practitioners to high standards. Without prior knowledge of the country, its culture and of course its healthcare system it can be tricky to select a surgeon that suits individual needs.

In terms of safety, Brazil, Thailand, and Malaysia are among the top destinations abroad for medical tourism according to The International Medical Travel Journal.

“BAPRAS offer some advice for patients considering cosmetic surgery abroad on their website. However, in practical terms it is very difficult to assess and compare standards in other countries and often requires specialist knowledge.

Rio de Janeiro is considered to be the “World Capital of Plastic Surgery,” due to its innovations, high quality procedures and protocols in patient safety. There is no shortage of highly trained doctors and JCI-accredited hospitals, and procedures could cost less than they would in the UK, but extensive background research must be carried out beforehand, and the patient must have provisions in place should any complications arise.”

Travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery is not a new phenomenon, but the increased demand for cosmetic tourism following the pandemic, and the subsequent rise in complications has led to BAAPS calling for Cosmetic Surgery Travel Insurance to be made compulsory to help tackle the situation.

Filed Under: Blog, News

Cynosure Acquire & Launch MyEllevate

March 29, 2022 by CarlFrascina

Cynosure has officially launched the MyEllevate® Surgical Suture System to the UK, expanding its best-class portfolio. 

Committed to delivering the latest innovations to support healthcare professionals, and aid in rising patient demand for surgical results at a minimally invasive level, the MyEllevate system offers a   discreet, non-invasive approach to neck and jawline contouring. 

Harnessing the power of the patented ICLED® light guided suture system, MyEllevate allows practitioners to easily place a suture support system without incisions, helping to define and enhance the jawline, elevate the sub-dermis and underlying muscle with rapid recovery and a lasting outcome. 

MyEllevate is the first and only patented light guided technology for use in soft tissue approximation and the elevation of sub dermis and underlying muscle. It uses a one-time use disposable surgical kit that enables the placement of a suture support system through a series of guided needle punctures, resulting in a less invasive approach.

The system was invented by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Gregory Mueller, he says: “As procedures like neck and face lifts continue to decline in popularity due to their invasiveness and extensive recovery time, patients are seeking new and innovative options. With Cynosure’s global reach and leadership, we’ll have the opportunity to enter new markets and expand access to MyEllevate and its long-lasting facial rejuvenation results.”

Cynosure officially launched MyEllevate into the UK aesthetic surgical market at an exclusive cadaver training event on the 24thMarch at Guys’ & St Thomas’ Hospital. The event was hosted by Dr. Gregory Mueller, MD, FACS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, and Inventor of the MyEllevate System.

Todd Tillemans, Chief Executive Officer of Cynosure comments: “MyEllevate broadens Cynosure’s already extensive surgical product portfolio, enabling us to offer this ground-breaking procedure in combination with other energy-based skin tightening technologies for optimal, long-lasting results.

Also known as the Zoom Lift, MyEllevate has gained popularity recently as more patients look for minimally invasive solutions to improve their appearance in today’s world of virtual meetings. It’s a cutting-edge treatment, and we’re thrilled to be able to offer this highly sought-after procedure to selected UK customers so that they can bring out the Beautiful Energy in everyone.”

MyEllevate can be performed under local anaesthesia and can be used as a stand-alone procedure or in combination with other treatments such as Potenza, TempSure® Surgical or SmartLipo® laser lipolysis treatments and energy-based skin tightening technologies.

As part of its ongoing commitment to quality and patient safety, Cynosure will only be making the MyEllevate procedure available to licenced plastic surgeons in the UK, and this specialised launch training event will enable selected expert plastic surgeons to understand the critical patient indications and selection process, alongside the surgical technique from the device founder himself. 

This acquisition comes as part of a continued effort from Cynosure, to provide a portfolio of devices that sit at the forefront of cutting-edge technology.

 

MyEllevate

Filed Under: Blog, News

Plastic surgeon and aesthetics trainer Dr Pierre Nicolau passes away

February 28, 2022 by CarlFrascina

The aesthetics world is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the eminent Plastic Surgeon Dr Pierre Nicolau.

Also a trainer for Sinclair Pharma, Dr Nicolau was recognised as a leading expert in his field of aesthetic medicine. 

Dr Pierre Nicolau studied at the Faculty of Medicine of Montpellier. After completing his training in Plastic Surgery, he went on to perfect his training for almost four years in England. And had also worked in Houston, Texas.

Dr Nicolau worked at the Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris as a Plastic Surgery consultant, first at Rothschild Hospital, then at Saint Louis University Hospital in the Professor M. Mimoun unit, and for over 10 years in Colombes at the Louis Mourier University Hospital.

Since 2003, he taught for the Inter University Diploma, which trains surgeons and dermatologists for injectable fillers and botulinum toxin (University PARIS XII), where he was in charge of teaching about the “Biological effects of injectable fillers”.

Dr Nicolau also conducted humanitarian missions in Pakistan, Vietnam and African countries for over 10 years. In parallel, he always followed developments in cosmetic surgery, participating in many conferences and congresses in France and abroad. 

Dr Nicolau led more than 500 Sinclair Pharma training courses and workshops, and delivered over 300 communications and lectures at congresses worldwide, as a recognised expert in his field. He also published over 68 articles and chapters in journals and scientific books.

Dr Victoria Manning worked alongside Dr Nicolau as part of their work with Sinclair Pharma. Dr Manning commented: “I was lucky enough to have met Pierre many times. I called him my guru! He has trained me, mentored me and been on the end of a text message when I needed his expertise and guidance. The passion he delivered around aesthetic medicine was inspirational. No words can really sum up how a lot of us are feeling right now. We have lost a friend and a colleague. His shoes will be extremely hard to fill in the Sinclair Pharma team. I wish his family and friends all the best in this tragic time.”

Chris Spooner, Managing Director of Sinclair Pharma added: “Pierre was both colleague and friend. Intellectually curious, energetic and independent-minded, he was amusing company and a valuable colleague. His untimely death is both tragic and distressing, and I am among very many who will miss him. My sincere condolences to Pierre’s wife, Raymonde, and family.”

Filed Under: Features, News

Merz announces the launch of new educational platforms

February 11, 2022 by CarlFrascina

Merz Aesthetics, a global pharmaceutical business, has launched two new learning portals to aid in the education of healthcare professionals.

ECADEMY, the first platform, is a cutting-edge clinical e-learning platform with over 100 injection procedures, face evaluation, and treatment planning video courses.

Artificial intelligence, according to the business, offers medical education geared to healthcare professionals in bite-sized formats, including CPD-accredited courses.

Merz notes that the second platform, EVENTS, gives professionals access to both online and real-world medical aesthetics events and material, as well as business and clinical issues.

Filed Under: News

Deleo launches new UK site

February 11, 2022 by CarlFrascina

Deleo, a European leading design and manufacturing company for medical-aesthetic devices, is pleased to announce the launch of its brand new UK website.

Deleo, founded in 2010 and situated in Frejus, France, specialises in the design, manufacture, and marketing of cutting-edge cosmetic medical devices. In more than 35 countries, the company is the market leader in cryolipolysis and high-powered LED devices. They consistently innovate and deliver high-quality products based on years of experience in the field of aesthetic medicine.

Now, Deleo looks to cement its position as a UK market leader in one of the fastest-growing areas: body sculpting. Their concept of ‘body layering’ combines state-of-the-art technologies – cryolipolysis, electromagnetic stimulation and radiofrequency – to achieve fantastic results for clinic and patients. 

“Many other manufacturers have one or two methods for treating individuals for body contouring, such as cryolipolysis, radio frequency, or electromagnetic stimulation; however, they seldom use a combination of these technologies in synergy to maximise patient outcomes.” explains Andre Fournier, Co-Founder of Deleo. 

“We recognised there was an opportunity to design a cutting-edge concept that could do all three duties while assuring safety and efficacy.” 

With more than 600 devices circulated worldwide, and more than 1,000,000 treatments completed, there is no doubt about the success of their products. 

Fournier explains: “Our new site reflects our commitment and transparency when it comes to what we do and how we do it. Through this new UK site, we aim to provide clinics and practitioners with an insight into our innovative technologies and the results to be expected from them. 

“We make custom-made devices because we understand the value of innovation and developing privileged relations with our clients. We are excited to establish ourselves within the UK market and forge new relationships.”

As established, Deleo is a company with innovation at its heart. The organisation is dedicated to research and development in order to provide clinics and patients with cutting-edge treatment options. Deleo has its own staff of skilled engineers with backgrounds in biomedical, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

Their commitment to innovation is demonstrated by the following: 

  • 20% of Deleo’s personnel are dedicated to research and development 
  • 10 patents filed and pending
  • Every year, a new technological discovery is unveiled

As well as body layering, the company has an array of devices to target a variety of concerns, from acne and alopecia to skin rejuvenation and ageing. 

To learn more visit www.deleo.co.uk

Filed Under: Blog, News

Hymen repair surgery to be banned in UK

February 8, 2022 by CarlFrascina

The government is planning on banning a cosmetic surgery called hymenoplasty across the UK. 

It attempts to recreate a woman’s hymen, which in some cultures is linked to virginity, and has been described as a form of honour-based abuse. The procedure will be criminalised.

Minister for Care and Mental Health Gillian Keegan said the government was “committed to safeguarding vulnerable women and girls in this country”. 

Hymenoplasty is available in clinics and can cost up to £3,000. 

The procedure recreates a thin membrane known as the hymen which partially covers the entrance to the vagina. It is often done as a way to “repair” a hymen.

But the World Health Organization (WHO) says “the appearance of a hymen is not a reliable indication of intercourse”.

The practice of hymenoplasty is linked to conservative cultures which place a high value on virginity, with the expectation a virgin should bleed after sex on her wedding night. 

The WHO says virginity testing is practised in at least 20 countries. It involves an intrusive vaginal examination to check if the hymen is intact.

The government promised at the end of last year to “introduce legislation to ban hymenoplasty at the earliest opportunity”. 

It has now included amendments in the health and care bill which would criminalise “aiding or abetting” a person carrying out hymenoplasty and could result in up to five years in prison. It would also be a criminal offence to take a girl or woman overseas to have the procedure. 

Last year when the bill was in the House of Commons, the government amended it to ban virginity testing after calling the practise “indefensible”. 

Filed Under: News

BCAM Releases Top Five Most Performed Treatments

February 3, 2022 by CarlFrascina

A study carried out by the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) has uncovered the top five most performed treatments to date.  

The 2021 Annual Clinical Review, covering treatments performed by its members between January and December 2020 found that botulinum toxin injections, HA dermal fillers, mesotherapy, PRP and laser/ IPL were the top perfume procedures between 2020 and 2021. 

The audit covers 299,000 individual treatment sessions conducted by 340 clinicians. Whilst individual treatment numbers were not released, the study did reveal that 147,000 of these sessions were for toxin injections. 

The audit also found a 50/50 split between female and male member practitioners and a wide representation of nationalities from across the globe practising in the UK. 

Data from BCAM’s Annual Clinical Reviews is shared with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to help guide and inform government thinking around the field of aesthetic medicine.

Filed Under: News

Cosmetic surgery boom due to working from home

February 2, 2022 by CarlFrascina

Harley Street clinics have seen a surge in people having cosmetic surgery because working from home means they can avoid questions from colleagues, according to a leading practitioner.

One clinic saw a 22 per cent rise in patients in the last six months of 2021 as people took advantage of not going into the office during the pandemic.

As they do not have to see colleagues, more people are choosing procedures with longer recovery times, such as face and neck lifts, according to experts.

Dr Julian de Silva says: “The pandemic has certainly brought about a rise in demand for more invasive procedures.

“What put a lot of people off surgery prior to Covid was all the questions they would face when they returned to the office about the reasons for having the procedure. 

“They found the idea a bit too intimidating, but working from home has removed all that.”

According to Dr de Silva, who runs The Centre for Advanced Facial Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, Harley Street saw its busiest year in a decade with a 15 per cent rise in cases after lockdown restrictions were eased last year.

Filed Under: News

Aesthetics world remembers Mr Niall Kirkpatrick

February 2, 2022 by CarlFrascina

The British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) announced the tragic loss of consultant craniofacial plastic surgeon Mr Niall Kirkpatrick on January 10th 2022, after he was fatally struck by a car while cycling.

Mr Kirkpatrick was a key member of the north west London specialist multidisciplinary team for the management of skin cancers and the multidisciplinary team for vascular anomalies at the Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust.

He was known as a specialist in managing complications with dermal filler applications and was highly respected within the industry.

Consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon Mr Dalvi Humzah, said, “It was a sad day to hear that Mr Kirkpatrick had passed away in tragic circumstances. He was a colleague who came through the ranks with me as senior house officer to consultant during our training.

“He was a true gentleman and a gentle giant in the speciality; for me he was one of the ‘consultant’s consultants’ to whom complex and difficult cases would be dealt with great expertise and empathy. He will be truly missed within the specialty as well as with friends and family.”

Filed Under: News

BioID Health launches new website

January 18, 2022 by CarlFrascina

BioID Health, UK provider of tailored and bespoke bioidentical hormone replacement therapy treatment is pleased to announce the launch of its brand new website: www.bioidhealth.com. 

BioID Health offers doctor-led treatment that achieves extraordinary life-changing results by using bioidentical hormones that are specially engineered to imitate your natural hormones. 

Specifically targeting those individuals suffering with menopause, perimenopause and andropause, the new website reflects BioID Health’s mission of becoming a leader in effective and tailored treatment, with the understanding that there is no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to hormonal imbalances. 

Dr Martin Kinsella, Founder of BioID Health explains: “Our new site reflects our commitment and transparency when it comes to navigating the maze that is menopause. Through this new website, we aim to provide individuals with the information that they need, whilst clearly articulating what we do, how we do it and results that can be expected.

Dr. Kinsella is one of the UK’s most sought-after aesthetic and anti-ageing practitioners, with over 15 years of experience in the field. He founded BioID and its state-of-the-art blood testing facility over 11 years ago, after which he started his own aesthetics clinic.

“We wanted to ensure our site was easy to navigate and clear to understand and digest. Dealing with hormonal changes can be debilitating and tough, with very little information available to support those in need. Therefore, making the user experience as clear and fluid was extremely important to us so that individuals could make informed choices regarding treatment” explains Dr Kinsella.

From their online system checker, to their breakdown of treatment options, the BioID Health site is packed with useful and informative information with the end-user in mind.

About BioID Health

BioID Health works by simulating the synthesis of a person’s natural hormones to fill individual shortages – it is completely unique for each individual and their body. Hormones are chemical messengers that help govern our daily processes, such as mental and physical well-being, sleep habits, and sex drive. 

Patients are provided with specialised treatments and a plan to simply replenish the precise hormones that they are deficient in and restore to maximum performance after a comprehensive assessment by a specialist and a blood/ saliva test.

“Menopause is a reality of life, and we shouldn’t be afraid of it,” says Dr. Kinsella. “It’s just our bodies adapting to a new chapter in life, which should be wonderful. Unfortunately, hormone deprivation makes these natural adjustments extremely difficult for the body, leaving us with some rather unpleasant symptoms.”

100 phlebotomy clinics around the UK currently offer bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.

Visit www.bioidhealth.com today to find out more.

Filed Under: News

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