The Government will use social media influencers to highlight the risks of travelling abroad for cosmetic procedures such as hair transplants and dental work under new plans. Ministers hope the TikTok campaign will help people make "more informed choices before they go under the knife".
The initiative will work with medical influencers including Midwife Marley and Doc Tally to create videos showing the dangers of cosmetic surgery abroad. The content will urge patients to speak to a UK doctor first and avoid package holidays that include medical procedures.
The campaign will provide a checklist for patients considering procedures abroad. This includes checking surgeon credentials, clinic regulations, and understanding aftercare arrangements before booking treatment.
Tackling medical tourism costs
The initiative forms part of a wider Government drive to tackle medical tourism and ensure the NHS is not left to foot the bill when complications arise from overseas procedures.
Health minister Karin Smyth said: "Too many people are being left with life-altering injuries after going abroad for medical procedures, without access to proper advice or safeguards. Often drawn in by deals too good to be true and promoted by influencers - some of whom have never been to the practice in question. By partnering with TikTok, we're helping people make safer, more informed choices before they go under the knife - wherever that may be."
Foreign Office minister Stephen Doughty said: "Our aim is to explain the risks and help British people understand the actions they can take to keep themselves safe when abroad. If you choose to travel abroad for medical treatment, it is vital you do your research and are fully aware of the risks involved. We urge anyone considering a medical procedure abroad to review our travel advice, relevant guidance from the NHS and other professional bodies, and research foreign providers thoroughly to ensure they meet the highest standard of care. Informed choices today can help avoid serious complications tomorrow."
New domestic restrictions planned
The TikTok initiative comes after ministers outlined plans to crack down on "cowboy" cosmetic procedures through new restrictions. The Department of Health and Social Care unveiled proposals this month requiring only "suitably qualified" and Care Quality Commission-regulated health workers to perform high-risk procedures such as Brazilian butt lifts.
Clinics offering Botox and fillers will need licences under the new plans. Age restrictions will also be introduced to prevent children from following "dangerous beauty trends on social media".
Those who break the new rules will face sanctions including financial penalties, according to officials.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
