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People thinking of having a cosmetic procedure are being urged to question their doctors before going ahead with treatment, in new advice issued by the General Medical Council (GMC).

As tough standards for doctors carrying out cosmetic practice come into force – covering everything from fillers to face lifts – the GMC has published a guide to help potential patients research and receive safe, high quality cosmetic care. The GMC says people considering a COSMETIC procedure should keep in mind the following when interacting with their doctor:

Katherine Murphy, Chief Executive of the Patients Association said:

“The Patients Association welcomes any guidance that remind patients of what they should consider when considering a cosmetic surgery procedure. People have cosmetic surgery for many different reasons, and are often vulnerable when exploring their options.

“It is vital that patients understand the risks involved with such procedures and that they feel fully informed when making the choice to undertake cosmetic surgery. Patients should be provided with all relevant information needed to guide their decisions, and they should feel able to ask questions that will reassure them. It is essential that they are supported and feel empowered to give informed consent.”

The GMC’s leaflet also explains what to do if people have any concerns or doubts about a cosmetic procedure, or if they experience any problems after work has been carried out. The GMC also published new guidance for doctors carrying out cosmetic procedures in April 2016.

Press Statement – Patients Association welcomes GMC’s advice to cosmetic surgery patients