Advice from GMC Following New Guidelines
In June 2016, the GMC (General Medical Council) started to enforce a new set of guidelines for doctors carrying out cosmetic procedures.
Now the GMC has issued advice for patients considering cosmetic treatments such as BOTOX® and dermal fillers, advising them to question their doctors before having treatment in order to be completely satisfied with what they’re about to have done and to feel confident in the professional carrying out the procedure.
GMC Guide for Patients
‘What to expect of doctors who carry out cosmetic procedures’
The GMC’s guide for patients is entitled ‘What to expect of doctors who carry out cosmetic procedures’.
As well as providing advice on ensuring that they receive cosmetic care which is safe and high quality, the guide also provides advice on what to do in case of any concerns or issues and summarises the advice in a mnemonic spelling COSMETIC to make it easier for patients to understand and remember:
Consent – The doctor that will carry out your procedure must speak to you in person and get your approval to proceed.- Openness – The doctor has to be transparent about their skill, experience, fees and any conflicts of interest.
- Safety – The procedure must be carried out in a safe and suitable location.
- Marketing – The doctor must market themselves responsibly, providing clarity about any of the risks involved.
- Experience – The doctor must have experience of carrying out the procedure the patient has requested. They should be able to advise what it involves and how long it would take.
- Time – The doctor must allow the patient enough time to make a decision.
- Information – Clear information should be provided, including aftercare information and who to contact if you have any concerns.
- Costs – The costs should be clearly explained, including details of additional fees for any extra procedures.
Professor Terence Stephenson, Chair of the GMC, said:
‘People choosing to undergo a cosmetic procedure have the right to expect safe, high quality care and treatment. While doctors offering cosmetic interventions now have tough standards they must follow, this shouldn’t deter potential patients from asking questions about any aspect of their care, treatment and support.’
Cosmetic Treatment Advice
Dr John Tanqueray
Mulberry House Clinic welcomed the advice. The company has also issued advice for patients contemplating cosmetic procedures in their own guides, written by Dr John Tanqueray, a highly experienced cosmetic treatment doctor and trainer who works with top manufacturers:
- FREE Report on Cosmetic Treatments
- How to achieve value for money and natural results from a non-surgical treatment provider
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with over 10 years experience. Cosmetic skin treatments are carried out by Dr John Tanqueray, who also works with Allergan to train other professionals in his skills and techniques.
A private consultation is suggested in the first instance in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email:info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
