Surgeons ask for ban on cosmetic surgery adverts
Members of the British Association of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) are calling for a ban of ads for cosmetic surgery such as breast enlargement and tummy tucks.
The surgeons say they are worried about the standards of some of the companies which advertise in tabloids and women's magazines and promote ‘2 for 1’ deals.
Fazal Fatah, BAAP president, said: "Over the last decade the BAAPS has worked tirelessly to educate the public on the many aggressive marketing gimmicks that not only trivialise surgery but endanger the patient.
"We have warned against the unrealistic expectations set by reality 'makeover' shows and against crass competition prizes promising 'mummy makeovers' and body overhauls. In no other area of surgery would one encounter Christmas vouchers and 2-for-1 offers – the pendulum has swung too far, and it is time for change.
"We understand MPs will review areas such as psychological counselling for cosmetic surgery patients and the unscrupulous marketing activities of many firms which take advantage of the young and the vulnerable. These are problems that we have been highlighting for many years."