Will MPs Finally Take Action on Brazilian Butt Lift Regulations?

The cross-party Women and Equalities Committee of MPs is urgently calling for tighter restrictions on high-risk cosmetic procedures, particularly liquid Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs), due to significant safety concerns. Their recommendation mandates that only qualified doctors should perform such treatments, which is seen as a necessary step to combat the current lack of regulation in the industry, characterised as a "wild west" market. This situation has led to dangerous practices and numerous complications for individuals seeking these procedures.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Women and Equalities Committee has raised alarms about the risks associated with liquid BBLs and similar cosmetic procedures. Their concerns are amplified by testimonies from individuals like Sasha Dean, who suffered life-threatening complications after a liquid BBL treatment. The committee argues that the government’s current plans for regulation fall short and are proceeding too slowly, leaving the public exposed to potentially dangerous treatments from unqualified practitioners.

Key takeaways

• The Women and Equalities Committee demands immediate regulation of high-risk cosmetic procedures.
• Only qualified doctors should be permitted to perform liquid BBLs and similar treatments.
• Current regulations are insufficient, creating a hazardous "wild west" environment for cosmetic procedures.
• The NHS will need to track complications from cosmetic surgeries carried out abroad.
• Social media is influencing increased demand for cosmetic procedures, particularly among young women.

Timeline: how we got here

The conversation surrounding the regulation of cosmetic procedures has been ongoing for over a decade. Here is a brief timeline:

• 2013: Concerns about cosmetic surgery safety begin to gain traction in Parliament.
• 2023: The government starts consulting on new regulations for high-risk cosmetic procedures.
• October 2023: The Women and Equalities Committee releases its report, calling for immediate action and tighter restrictions on procedures like liquid BBLs.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent discussions have highlighted the immediate need for regulation around high-risk cosmetic procedures following alarming reports from individuals affected by unsafe practices. The committee’s report underscores the urgency of implementing measures that would ensure only qualified medical professionals administer these treatments.

What was already established

For years, there have been calls from health professionals and patient advocacy groups for stricter regulations in the cosmetic surgery industry. The lack of oversight has allowed rogue operators to thrive, creating environments where treatments can occur in unsafe settings like private homes or unregulated facilities.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The proposed changes will primarily affect consumers seeking cosmetic procedures. With tighter restrictions, individuals may find it more challenging to access certain treatments, but they will also be safer. The need for verification of provider qualifications and the possibility of increased costs are potential outcomes for consumers.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses, particularly those currently offering high-risk cosmetic procedures, these regulatory changes could necessitate a significant shift in operations. Clinics may need to employ qualified medical professionals or risk facing legal consequences. This could impact jobs and the landscape of the cosmetic treatment industry as a whole.

Policy and regulation

The government is under pressure to introduce a licensing scheme for non-surgical procedures by the end of the current parliamentary term in 2029. The Care Quality Commission is expected to play a pivotal role in inspecting these services to ensure compliance with new regulations.

Numbers that matter

• 5,500: The number of clinics offering non-surgical cosmetic treatments in the UK.
• 1/3: Only one-third of practitioners providing these treatments are qualified doctors.
• 1: The reported number of serious complications experienced by individuals undergoing liquid BBLs, with some requiring emergency medical attention.
• 10: The number of years that calls for tougher regulations have been made before the current governmental consultations started.
• 2029: The deadline set by the government for implementing the licensing scheme for non-surgical procedures.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Liquid Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL): A non-surgical procedure that uses injectable fillers to enhance the shape of the buttocks.
• Care Quality Commission (CQC): The independent regulator of health and social care in England.
• Cosmetic Cowboys: A colloquial term for unqualified practitioners offering cosmetic procedures.
• High-risk procedures: Treatments that pose significant health risks and complications, often requiring medical expertise.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, individuals considering cosmetic procedures should thoroughly research providers and their qualifications. Increased media attention on this issue may lead to heightened public awareness and scrutiny of cosmetic practices.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As discussions continue in Parliament, stakeholders in the cosmetic industry should prepare for potential changes in regulation. Clinics may need to adapt their practices to comply with new standards and training requirements.

Signals to watch

• Updates from the government regarding the timeline for implementing new regulations.
• Further recommendations from the Women and Equalities Committee.
• Public and media reactions to the proposed changes and the impact on consumer behaviour.

Practical guidance

Do

• Research the qualifications of practitioners before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.
• Stay informed about the latest regulatory changes in the cosmetic industry.
• Consult healthcare professionals if you have any concerns about the safety of a procedure.

Don’t

• Don’t choose providers based solely on price; cheaper options may indicate a lack of qualifications.
• Don’t ignore signs of complications or adverse effects after a procedure.
• Don’t rely solely on social media influencers for advice on cosmetic procedures.

Checklist

• Verify the provider's qualifications and experience.
• Check for reviews or testimonials from previous clients.
• Ensure the environment where the procedure will take place meets safety standards.
• Ask about aftercare and support following the procedure.
• Be aware of the risks associated with the procedure you are considering.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The ongoing discussions around cosmetic procedure regulation highlight several uncertainties. Until specific guidelines and definitions of "high-risk" procedures are established, enforcement of new regulations may be challenging. Additionally, the influence of social media on consumer behaviour continues to complicate the landscape, as younger audiences may be more susceptible to marketing tactics that promote potentially unsafe treatments.

Bottom line

The call for stricter regulations on high-risk cosmetic procedures, particularly liquid BBLs, underscores an urgent need for consumer safety in the UK. The government's commitment to introducing a licensing scheme is a step toward addressing these concerns, but immediate action is required to protect individuals from the dangers of unregulated practices in the cosmetic industry.

FAQs

What are liquid Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs)?

Liquid BBLs are non-surgical cosmetic procedures that enhance the buttocks using injectable fillers. They are currently under scrutiny due to safety concerns.

What are the proposed regulations for cosmetic procedures in the UK?

Proposed regulations include restricting high-risk procedures to qualified healthcare professionals and implementing a licensing scheme for non-surgical treatments.

What should I do if I experience complications after a cosmetic procedure?

If you experience complications, seek medical attention immediately. Report any concerns to appropriate regulatory bodies to help raise awareness about unsafe practices.