Changes to Cosmetic Surgery Regulations – What You Need to Know

Posted on Dr Gary Kode

Significant updates have recently been made to the Cosmetic Surgery Guidelines to strengthen patient safety, maintain standards of care, and support ethical practice. These updates include measures such as mandatory referrals, comprehensive pre-screening assessments, and defined cooling-off periods. The revised guidelines place greater focus on patient safety and reinforce the requirement for transparency and accountability in cosmetic procedures.

Medical Board & AHPRA Regulations – Effective 1st July 2023

IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR OUR PATIENTS

Commencing from July 1st, 2023, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulatory Agency (AHPRA) and the Medical Board of Australia introduced a series of new regulations governing Cosmetic Surgery patients, as well as Guidelines for registered medical practitioners who perform and advertise cosmetic surgery and procedures.

These regulation changes have been implemented to not only protect patients but to increase the level of care provided during the cosmetic surgery journey.

Important Cosmetic Surgery Changes For Patients

  • Referral: A referral from a General Practitioner (GP) or Medical Specialist will be mandatory for all patients undergoing consultation for cosmetic surgery.
  • Consultation Requirements: Patients must attend a minimum of two consultations before undergoing cosmetic surgery.
  • Pre-screening Assessment Test (PAT): A pre-screening assessment test for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) will be conducted.
  • Cooling-off Period: Patients must observe a cooling-off period of at least seven days after signing a consent form before proceeding with surgery, including booking and making deposits.
  • Informed Consent Process: A more detailed informed consent document and process has been implemented.
  • Higher Standards in Training and Experience: Doctors will have to meet higher standards in terms of training and experience, including Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements.
  • Accredited Facilities: Surgical procedures must take place in accredited facilities.
  • Use of Medical Titles: Stricter regulations regarding the use of medical titles like “Surgeon.”
  • Tougher Advertising Standards: Advertising standards for cosmetic surgery will be more stringent.

Tougher Advertising Standards

The recent changes to cosmetic surgery regulations include stricter advertising guidelines. Consequently, our website is currently undergoing modifications to align with these changes, including;

Content Revision: Written content on our website is currently under review and revision to meet compliance with the new advertising regulations.

Before and After Photos: We are in the process of editing our Before and After photo sections to adhere to the guidelines. As a result, we have take down some photos due to non-compliance.

Future Photo Availability: We will be reintroducing a wider selection of Before and After photos as soon as possible.

As we work on these website updates, our primary aim is to provide accurate, transparent, and relevant information in line with the new guidelines. This is crucial for both medical professionals and patients. Staying informed through reputable medical associations and official sources is essential to keep track of any further guideline changes.

A note from us

These updates aren’t just about adhering to rules; they are about patient safety, quality of care, and upholding the industry’s standards. It’s important for patients to understand that these changes emphasise transparency, ethical practices, and ongoing changes. Keep up-to-date by checking official sources and have open conversations with healthcare providers.

All these changes contribute to a more reputable cosmetic surgery experience for patients.

Have Questions?

We understand these updates may raise questions. Please feel free to contact our team to discuss how the new guidelines may affect your consultation and treatment journey. Your understanding and cooperation help us provide care that meets regulatory requirements.

Articles and Further Information

For more information about the changes to cosmetic surgery guidelines please follow the links below.