Health risks of plastic surgery. Image credit: MTV Sodiq Ojuroungbe As the demand for aesthetic plastic procedures, also known as plastic surgery continues to increase, a Consultant Clinical Oncologist, Dr Charles Okwonna, has called for stringent government regulation of the procedure, citing significant health risks and deaths associated with unprofessional practices. The expert also expressed worries over the proliferation of poorly administered skincare treatments.
Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the cancer expert lamented that many practitioners prioritise financial gains over professionalism, leading to increased risks of serious medical conditions. Dr Charles Okwonna Okwonna noted that the associated risks extend beyond cancer, and have been linked to kidney and liver failures as well as transmittable infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis resulting from unhygienic practices during such procedures. Acknowledging the growing popularity of aesthetic procedures, the physician warned that without proper oversight, the proliferation of unregulated practices could lead to a public health crisis.
He called on regulatory bodies to act swiftly to protect consumers from potential harm associated with poorly administered treatments. While noting that the government must enforce minimum standards for equipment used during aesthetic procedures, the physician proposed a certification process post-procedure to ensure ongoing health monitoring and safety for pa.