The Royal Belgian Society for Plastic Surgery (RBSPS) urged for more regulation within the cosmetic surgery market in a statement on Tuesday.
The society condemned the "illegal jungle" in the cosmetic surgery market, highlighting unqualified practitioners, dubious product quality, poor sanitary conditions, and misleading social media advertisements.
The statement follows the revelation that at least two people have died in Belgium following cosmetic procedures carried out by unqualified individuals.
"Every day, our members encounter scam victims seeking to repair physical damage caused by unqualified individuals," the RBSPS noted. It added that, under a 2013 law, only duly trained professionals (plastic surgeons, dermatologists, aesthetic physicians) are authorised to perform procedures involving skin penetration.
Many cases of malpractice harm patients, with poorly conducted procedures potentially causing serious complications such as skin necrosis (tissue death), blindness, or even death.
The RBSPS urged political parties forming a federal coalition to officially recognise the title of aesthetic physician, regulate the sale of injectable products, and implement mandatory training for practitioners.
It further called for stricter legislation to tackle misinformation and social media advertising.
The RBSPS also urged patients to remain vigilant and always seek qualified professionals for cosmetic procedures. A list of recognised practitioners is available on the RBSPS website. "Patients should be wary of low prices and enticing social media advertisements (advertising is prohibited for doctors), which are often indicative of dubious practices," warned the society.
