The Nigerian Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons has condemned what it described a ‘quackery’ in cosmetics and plastic surgery procedures.

In a press release signed by Prof. Legbo and Dr Iyun, its president and general secretary respectively, the association said:

“There have been reports of incidences where persons requiring aesthetic (cosmetic) surgeries have landed in the hands of persons not trained to carry out such procedures, and at times, in dubious facilities.

“Surgeries in these circumstances have often ended up with preventable severe complications and, at times, deaths.

“Regrettably, this trend appears to be on the increase, as more media reports show.”

The association expressed “deep concerns” about the issues, noting, “However, we wish to inform the public that none of our registered members have been involved in these circumstances.”

It said its members have not been implicated in such practices “due to the rigorous postgraduate training and certification necessary to be called a Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon.”

Continuing, NAPRAS said:

“Our association feels the pains of relations who have lost loved ones in these circumstances. Our thoughts are with those who are presently suffering from undue complications – we wish them quick and complete recovery.

“We wish to formally draw the attention of the general public to the existence of such quacks and dubious facilities.

“We hereby implore the public to desist from patronising them.

“The public is further advised to do appropriate background checks on individuals and facilities before subjecting themselves to surgery.

“Information on the names and practising locations of our members is available on our website: www.napras.org.ng

“We implore all members of our sssociation to continue to maintain high sense of professionalism and good ethical and moral standards in the practice of our specialty.

“We urge the relevant government agencies to ensure that those engaged in such practices and the facilities they use are exposed and punished in accordance with the relevant laws of the land.

“Furthermore, we pledge to assist these agencies as they carry out these tasks.”

PUNCH HealthWise