Baaps reacts to DoH announcement

27/03/2008

The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (Baaps) has responded to new government proposals to deregulate lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) technologies that are used for aesthetic purposes.

Douglas McGeorge, president of Baaps and consultant plastic surgeon, called the planned Department of Health (DoH) move to deregulate "absurd", considering the current environment in which clinicians are asking for tighter regulations.

He added: "Sooner or later patients will suffer as a result of these political moves and the government will have to take responsibility for their actions."

IPL technology is commonly used in the treatment of lines, wrinkles, scars and damaged skin, according to Baaps.

It can also be used to remove hair from larger surface areas, such as a person''s back or legs.

Recent research from Baaps revealed that there were 32,453 surgical procedures carried out by its members in 2007 - a rise of 12.2 per cent on 2006 figures when 28,921 were undertaken.

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