Changes to Cosmetic Surgery Regulations – What You Need to Know

Recently there have been significant changes to the Cosmetic Surgery Guidelines. These alterations have been made to help patient safety, increase standards of care, and ensure ethical practices. As part of these changes, requirements such as referrals, pre-screening assessments, and cooling-off periods have been introduced. The revision to the guidelines prioritises the well-being of patients and emphasises the dedication to transparent and accountable 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 enhanced regulations have been implemented to not only ensure the protection of patients but to enhance 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 ensure 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 taken 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 ensuring patient safety, improving the 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 enhancement. Keep up-to-date by checking official sources and have open conversations with healthcare providers.

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

Articles and Further Information

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

Last updated: 28/11/2023
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Shannon Pacey
As a member of our Digital Marketing Team, Shannon assists in the development and distribution of marketing material on our websites. This includes editing, researching and writing informative, transparent content for our website that is easily comprehensible for our patients.

Specialist Plastic Surgeons and ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) Surgeon

With a wealth of experience and training, our Specialist Plastic and ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) Surgeons are dedicated to best-practice patient care and education, customising Surgery for each and every patient to best meet their needs and desired surgical outcomes.

What to do next?

Our Patient Liaison Team can assist with any questions you may have when considering a procedure. You can send in an enquiry form below or call our Melbourne Clinic between 9 am – 5 pm Monday to Friday.

Phone 1300 599 990, Email us: enquiries@cocoruby.com.au or Book a FREE 15-minute Phone Chat with our Patient Liaison Manager or a Consultation with a Surgeon.


Disclaimer: Results depend on individual patient circumstances and can vary significantly. Results may also be impacted by a variety of factors including your lifestyle, weight, nutritional intake and overall health. Consult your Specialist Plastic Surgeon for details. This information is general in nature and is not intended to be medical advice nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Surgery risks and complications will be covered in detail during a consultation with your Surgeon.