Social media has contributed many things to society since its conception a few years ago. It has connected people in a way that was not possible previously, but it has also brought about the phenomenon of the selfie.
Instagram and other social media networks give users a platform to showcase their images to vast numbers of people. This coupled with a growing desire by many to achieve the perfect look has lead to non-surgical cosmetic procedures such as botox and dermal fillers becoming a craze that is taking the cosmetic treatment industry by storm.
Indeed, for some, botox injections are now a regular part of a beauty regime, in a similar way to a pedicure or manicure.
Celebrity endorsements and the desire to always look our best, non-surgical cosmetic treatments are fast becoming a part of everyday life.
Where buying a bottle of anti-wrinkle cream would suffice in times gone by, it simply doesn’t cut it for many in the present day.
With botox and dermal fillers leading the way for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, it’s important that those considering it are aware of the risks involved as well as what the legal options are should their treatment go wrong.
Some of the risks
Physical scarring and aesthetic damage are common risks when undergoing any non-surgical cosmetic procedure. There can also be a risk of infection if the treatment isn’t carried out in a sterile environment.
Botox perhaps carries one of the greatest risks should the treatment go wrong.
It is created from a neurotoxin that paralyses the muscles that cause the skin to wrinkle. Some who undergo the treatment may suffer various degrees of swelling or bruising, however, should the neurotoxin spread to other areas of the body, it can cause muscle weakness, a loss of vision or even breathing difficulties.
How to avoid the risk?
With risks of potentially disastrous side effects, it’s important that you consult a medical professional before having any cosmetic procedure, whether non-surgical or otherwise. It’s important that you have a firm understanding of the procedure, side effects and anything else that may be a risk during the process.
If you opt to have a dermal filler or botox treatment, make sure that the procedure is carried out by a medical professional that is registered with the General Medical Council, and that they have received the adequate amount of training to administer such procedures.
If you are unsure of the qualifications or skills that your medical professional should have, you can visit the Independent Healthcare Advisory Service’s website to learn more, or take a look at the Treatment You Can Trust register.
Both will outline the standards that such practitioners should adhere to, meaning you can have peace of mind that you will be receiving your treatment from a reputable medical practitioner.
Dermal fillers, in particular, can be problematic. They can be readily purchased on the internet and administered by anyone.
If they are administered by an untrained individual who is unaware of the risks that dermal fillers pose, they can be highly dangerous, causing facial disfigurement, allergic reactions or permanent lumps under the skin.
To avoid this, always make sure a qualified professional carries out any dermal filler treatment.
The key to helping yourself avoid the risk with any procedure, whether surgical or otherwise is to always do your homework.
If you find a treatment for a price that is lower than the market rate, make sure you ask plenty of questions to assess the validity of the practitioner and the treatment itself.
It’s always better to put the time in to assess your options, rather than run the risk of permanently altering your appearance and risking your health in the process.
Where do you turn if it goes wrong?
Whilst the majority of cosmetic treatments are administered without risk or misfortune, unfortunately, sometimes treatments can go wrong.
Should you suffer substandard care when receiving a cosmetic treatment, our clinical negligence team can help.
We have a dedicated team that will provide expert advice in this complex area. There to advise you on each step of the process, from the initial advice to possible treatment if required, we pride ourselves on our professional but caring approach.
If you would like to speak to a member of our team to discuss your potential case, please call us for free today on 0800 1979 345 or complete our online enquiry form.
