Dear Editor,

As a medical doctor who specialises in cosmetic medicine I am concerned about the number of illegal establishments that are offering medical procedures to unsuspecting patients.

I have been practising medicine for four years and I operate a newly opened medical spa, RebelAura Aesthetics in Kingston, and we specialise in advanced cosmetic procedures for many types of skin conditions and cosmetic concerns, from acne to stretch marks and cellulite.

Lately, I have observed that individuals on social media can be seen performing both medical and dental procedures for which only a licensed medical doctor is authorised. Some of these procedures include administering botox, lip fillers, fillers to the buttocks, and intravenous vitamin infusions.

Despite the popularity of these procedures, it is imperative that both these cosmetic establishments and patients be reminded that it is illegal for an individual to perform a medical procedure without a medical licence.

A number of complications can arise, including infection, nerve damage, and blood vessel occlusion, while performing these procedures. These complications can leave the patient with severe morbidity and dysfunction.

As a licensed medical doctor, I am trained to safely perform both medical and cosmetic procedures and to quickly identify and treat any of these complications if they happen. Cosmetic complications are more likely to happen if the practitioner has no or poor clinical knowledge. The risk of permanent damage is further heightened because only licensed medical doctors can legally prescribe drugs like antibiotics to treat an infection or perform a medical procedure to reverse a complication.

Not only is the medical community affected by these unscrupulous establishments but the dental community is taking a hit as well due to the lack of regulations from the medical and dental councils of Jamaica regarding who can perform medical and dental procedures.

I strongly implore patients to look out for these establishments and accept responsibility for their health. Your safety should be your number one priority when undergoing cosmetic or any other type of medical procedure.

Dr Joshua Daye

CEO

RebelAura Aesthetics

@rebelaurabeauty