Unexpected Closure of SKIN Puts Cosmetic Surgery Patients in Danger

Editorial Brief
At a glance: AI-assisted overview, optimised for journalists, search & news aggregators
Press Release

The sudden closure of SKIN, a significant name in the cosmetic surgery industry, has left countless patients in a vulnerable situation, highlighting the need for thorough research when choosing a cosmetic surgery provider. The collapse has severely impacted patients who recently underwent procedures at Harley Street Medical Group (HSMG).

The abrupt closure has left many patients unable to reach their surgeons or support staff for follow-up care or assistance if they are concerned about complications, potentially putting them in danger. The closure has also left thousands of people facing an uncertain future regarding their prepaid treatments or upcoming cosmetic surgery procedures.

The lack of communication to staff and patients has raised serious concerns about the company’s business practices. An anonymous HSMG practitioner shared, “We were just told this morning not to come into work tomorrow. Our managers said they didn’t even know ’til today; it’s all been totally hush-hush. Clients arrived for appointments today, and I had to turn them away.”

Annabelle, the founder of the Cosmetic Surgery Advancements website and Consultant Directory, a platform designed to connect patients with qualified and vetted plastic surgeons, highlighted the case of Harley Street Medical Group as an example of the dangers in the industry. “Harley Street Medical Group, in my opinion, like many large cosmetic surgery companies, has continuously put profits before patient care and safety. They were one of the companies that purchased PIP implants, which were significantly cheaper than other brands. Most plastic surgeons chose not to use these implants, deeming them substandard long before it was discovered they contained industrial silicone and were subsequently banned.”

Mr Douglas McGeorge FRCS (Plast), a director of his own cosmetic and plastic surgery clinic, fully supports Annabelle’s mission to challenge profit-driven websites that promote inadequately trained cosmetic surgeons. He told us,

“This incident serves as a stark reminder that the appeal of cosmetic surgery should not overshadow the importance of thorough research and careful consideration. Choosing a provider based solely on an organisation’s public image can have disastrous consequences.”

SKIN’s official statement acknowledges the impact of the closure but offers little reassurance, presenting a troubling picture of an industry where financial stability and ethical practices are not always guaranteed

About Cosmetic Surgery Advancements

Cosmetic Surgery Advancements, founded by Annabelle Baugh, who has had various cosmetic surgery procedures, is committed to offering expert insights and guidance on best practices in cosmetic surgery. The CSA mission is to educate people on making informed decisions about their cosmetic surgery options and provide support in finding highly qualified plastic surgeons.

Notes to editors

About Annabelle After discovering that her Allergan breast implants were recalled due to their association with a rare lymphatic cancer now recognized by WHO as Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), Annabelle took action. She launched a blog initially, which later evolved into the Cosmetic Surgery Advancements (CSA) site and consultant directory. Annabelle, who has Allergan textured implants with the highest reported link to BIA-ALCL, wanted to provide a trustworthy resource for women facing similar risks. Like many, Annabelle initially chose her surgeon based on a friend’s recommendation. She was fortunate to find a properly qualified plastic surgeon who was a member of the British Association of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). She is profoundly concerned about lax global regulations, especially as one of the leading cosmetic surgery sites allows any surgeon to market themselves as cosmetic surgeons, regardless of their qualifications or training. This, she argues, puts patients at unnecessary risk of serious complications and even death. Annabelle firmly believes that many of these cosmetic surgeons prioritise profit over patient safety and demonstrate a dangerous disregard for patient well-being and care. To combat this issue, Annabelle established the CSA Consultant Directory, where properly qualified plastic surgeons can list their profiles at no cost, ensuring transparency and safety for patients. Annabelle has also co-authored “The Beginners Guide to Cosmetic Breast Surgery” with Mr. Douglas McGeorge, a respected UK plastic surgeon and advocate for her cause. This guidebook offers practical insights into choosing reputable plastic surgeons, understanding breast surgery procedures, and managing expectations throughout the surgical journey.

Get more news like this

Get more news like this on Google. Set News By Wire as a ‘Preferred News Source’ to get quicker access to news that’s important.

All done!
Thank you for subscribing.

Email Subscription