Category: Media

Breast Implant Registry- a track and trace facility

18/1/2017

The Breast Cosmetic Implant Registry (BCIR) was launched in the UK in Oct 2016 and is managed by NHS Digital http://www.hscic.gov.uk/clinicalauditplatform. It is track and trace system- in the event of another failure such as PIP implants, patients can be traced and actively managed. It follows the example set by similar breast implants registries in Australia and Netherlands. The data-set has been shared by the Australians and the Dutch via 'icobra' (International Collaboration of Breast Registry Activities) and is embedded in the UK BIR.

However, unlike the other registries which favour mandatory participation, in the UK, a patient has to give consent for her data to be entered into the registry. All patients are actively encouraged to participate in the registry.

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GMC guidance for doctors who offer cosmetic surgery- my views for safeguarding patients

10/6/2015

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The GMC have launched a consultation on new draft guidance which sets out the standards for doctors offering cosmetic interventions. One of the key points is "making sure patients are given enough time and information before they decide whether to have an intervention". This will differ for surgical and non-surgical procedures, of course, and in case of surgery, will also depend on the complexity of the operation. The GMC have not specified a particular time period.

The majority of plastic surgeons have been using a '2 weeks cooling-off ' period for some years. I believe that the following should be made mandatory for all cosmetic surgery:

a minimum 2 weeks 'cooling-off' period
2 consultations: the first consultation lasting 30min when the patient's suitability for the operation, risks, benefits, and long-term results are discussed; followed by a further consultation at a later date.
the surgeon performing the operation should see the patient at the 2 consultations.
Defer cosmetic surgery on those under 18 years unless, unless under exceptional circumstances.

The GMC public consultation runs until 1 September. To participate and submit your views, visit http://www.gmc-uk.org/guidance/news_consultation/27171.asp.

Listen to my interview on the BBC Radio 4 Today, 0715hrs on 8 June 2015 with Justin Webb and James Naughtie:

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BAPRAS: Think Over before you Make Over

22/2/2015

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Every year thousands of people in the UK put themselves at serious risk by undergoing bad or inappropriate surgery that could be easily avoided by asking some simple questions about their treatment. Poor surgery can have both physical and psychological consequences, so it is vital to make an informed choice and choose the right surgeon for the job.

Following 5 Cs for cosmetic surgery will help you decide if cosmetic surgery is the right choice for you.

THINK OVER BEFORE YOU MAKE OVER

1 Think about the CHANGE you want to see

Do your research. Find out all you can about the treatment/s you want. Be precise as to the change you hope to see and the reasons why.

2 CHECK OUT potential surgeons

If you are thinking about cosmetic surgery, speak to your GP. Find a surgeon who
has the right credentials and is on the appropriate specialist register with the GMC. Fully qualified Plastic Surgeons will be on the GMC Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery. Find out about their experience of the procedure you are considering and make sure you meet them and discuss the outcome you can expect before you commit to having something done.

3 Have a thorough CONSULTATION & ask the right questions

Your Plastic Surgeon will discuss and clarify the treatment options with you and then plan your treatment. Find out as much as possible by bringing along questions so you know the risks involved and feel comfortable with the surgeon who will be carrying out your surgery.

4 COOL OFF before you commit

Give yourself some time to ensure that you want the surgery and to make sure you feel at ease with the surgeon who will be treating you.

5 CARE about your aftercare

Aftercare can be just as important as the surgery itself, so make sure you know who to contact and how you will be looked after, especially if there are any complications or problems following your surgery or treatment.

Key questions to ask your surgeon before choosing cosmetic surgery

Who will operate on me?
What are your qualifications?
What are the potential risks and complications?
What is your complication & re-operation rate?
What results can I expect and how long will they last for?
What aftercare do you provide?

THINK OVER BEFORE YOU MAKE OVER

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SO Tunbridge Wells- the Round Table debate

6/10/2014

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so_tunbridge_wells_the_great_round_table_debate_.pdf
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Breast Implant Registry- a track and trace facility

GMC guidance for doctors who offer cosmetic surgery- my views for safeguarding patients

BAPRAS: Think Over before you Make Over

SO Tunbridge Wells- the Round Table debate

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