Beware of Medical Spas for Cosmetic Treatments

Posted by Dr. Julian De Silva | November 7th, 2014

Unregulated Medical Spas May Cost You More in the Long Run

Medical spas are popping up all over the UK with increasing popularity. These spas are known for providing clients with cosmetic procedures such as non-surgical treatments including wrinkle relaxants, filler and laser treatments. Consumers are drawn to the idea of receiving such procedures in between their pedicure and bikini wax. The problem with these medi-spas is the lack of regulation and attention from less qualified personnel. Many of these spas are reported to have employees performing various cosmetic procedures without the essential training and licensing. The result of this frightening situation is patients suffering from severe facial burns, droopy eyelids, and dark spots around the face. An alarming amount of injuries, some fatal, have been reported due to these irresponsible practices.

Cosmetic procedures that need to be performed by a specialist clinician

Botox injections, wrinkle fillers and laser treatments are the main cosmetic procedures that are concerning professionals.

Wrinkle Fillers:

Fillers can ease the skin under a line or wrinkle, effectively smoothing it out and decreasing its appearance. However, different fillers have different effects on different parts of the face. In order to achieve a natural look, the type of filler, the amount injected, and the area in which it is injected must be considered. The amount of the filler used also depends on the patient’s skin type. Possible negative side effects of this treatment are:

• Allergic reaction
• Tiny skin bumps that sometime become permanent
• Bluish skin discoloration
• Skin cells may die

Wrinkle relaxants:

Wrinkle relaxants, including botulinum toxin, is derived from a neurotoxin. It must be administered by someone who is medically qualified. Aside from causing a “frozen” look, botched Botox injections can have many consequences that require professional medical attention. Side effects include:

• Droopy eyelids
• Problems with vision
• Crooked smile
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Excessive tearing

Cosmetic laser treatments use a focused amount of light energy to remove/ reduce the appearance of wrinkles, moles, sunspots, tattoos and hair. When tuned inappropriately, laser wavelengths have the potential to severely damage skin. Laser procedures that were not performed by professionals have resulted in severe facial burns or blindness. Some other side effects of laser treatments include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Hyperpigmentation

Laser treatments, along with wrinkle relaxants and fillers are delicate procedures, and should always be performed by a specialist plastic surgeon, dermatologist or nursing staff. These medical professionals are properly trained to assess differences in individual skin type and texture, and suggest a treatment plan accordingly. In the hands of a specialist facial plastic surgeon such as Dr Julian De Silva, risks associated with non-surgical treatments severely decreases. When researching these cosmetic procedures, it is imperative to request detailed information about the doctor who will be helping you. Though a medical spa may seem convenient, it is much wiser and safer to stick to the simple facials they offer.