Even despite all the recent safety scares and warnings and news stories about horrible experiences of cosmetic surgery patients going to unlicensed practitioners, it seems that many consumers are still unaware of the associated risks.
Reports from Chicago, California, Georgia, and other locations have reported unsuspecting patients who have suffered pain, disfigurement, and even death, as a result of “Backdoor Procedures” by those either posing as doctors or those simply inexperienced and unfit doctors. One woman actually died after being injected with cooking oil in a Salinas, California beauty salon. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) adamantly warns against seeking cosmetic procedures by anyone other than a licensed and experienced plastic surgeon.
And as the economy creates desperate times, many consumers are also seeking discount surgery. “Patients may be lured in by inexpensive prices and unrealistic claims. Patients think they are getting a bargain, but they are actually putting their health and lives at risk and they may not even know it,” said James M. Stuzin, MD, P resident of the Aesthetic Society. “Only licensed practitioners should perform cosmetic procedures. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery provides resources that can be accessed by phone and online to help patients find qualified physicians for cosmetic enhancement procedures.”
There are many ways for patients to do their research in finding a board certified plastic surgeon. Patients can check to see if the practitioner is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery by checking with the Board at: http://www.abplsurg.org/ or by calling 1-866-ASK-ABMS. Referrals to qualified surgeons can be found online at www.surgery.org , the website for the Aesthetic Society or by calling their referral line at 888.ASAPS.11 (272.7711).
You should never seek a cosmetic procedure if it is offered in non-medical settings, such as homes, hotels and beauty salons which are not performed by qualified individuals and may involve the use of illegal or unknown substances. Patients should never choose a doctor solely on the basis of lower cost.
The Institute of Facial and Cosmetic Surgery in Salt Lake City Utah offers all aspects of cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery in our State Licenced Surgery Center. Call us at 801.261.3637
Dr. Brent Kennedy is certified by both the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and The American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.
Plastic surgery is a very serious thing. WHether your getting a rhinoplasty done or face lift it is all very important. They should not be taken lightly. I agree with this article fullheartedly. I would not recommend someone to go to some place just because of the discount. Make sure your procedure is done in a qualified and high quality medical setting.
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