Cosmetic surgeries require thorough research, be aware of “fake clinics”
In the wake of an upswing in cosmetic surgeries across India, the trend toward quick transformations has led some individuals to make dangerous choices, often opting for clinics based solely on marketing claims. This practice can result in life-threatening consequences. The death of Muhammad Mazin following a procedure in Mangalore has raised concerns about the dangers of choosing clinics based on marketing claims. This incident has sparked discussions about the risks of unregulated practices in the cosmetic surgery industry.
Not all “clinics” are medically certified
It is imperative for prospective cosmetic surgery patients to do comprehensive research on the credentials and qualifications of centres, as well as the experience of the medical staff involved. Just because outlets present themselves as “clinics” does not necessarily mean that such establishments are medically certified.
A concerning trend is the proliferation of unlicensed clinics, with the Karnataka Health Department data indicating that since 2007, clinics and laboratories run by 1436 ‘fake’ doctors have been sealed as of November 2023.
Experts from the field that VB consulted emphasised that thorough research is crucial. They noted that when considering any surgical procedure, it is essential to evaluate the entire healthcare setup—surgeons, anaesthetists, back-up ICU services, and the availability of specialists for emergencies. Furthermore, board certificates and accreditations are key factors to consider when selecting a clinic.
Private clinics' registration mandatory under KPME Act
Notably, under the Karnataka Private Medical Establishments (KPME) Act, it is mandatory for all private medical establishments in the state to obtain a KPME registration. Section 19 of the KPME Amendment Act, 2017, stipulates that anyone who establishes or runs an unregistered private medical institution can face imprisonment for up to three years and a fine of Rs 1 lakh. Furthermore, such institutions are legally required to provide emergency care without demanding advance payment.
Cosmetic surgeries can be fatal without thorough research
The tragic incident in Karnataka, where a 32-year-old man, Muhammad Mazin, reportedly died following a cosmetic surgery procedure earlier this month has gained significant attention. He had visited a private cosmetic surgery and transplant clinic in Mangaluru for a liposuction procedure to treat gynecomastia (surgical correction of enlarged breasts). The surgery was extended for hours, and his family received no updates until they were informed of a critical health decline. Mazin was rushed to a private hospital in Kodialbail, where he was declared dead on arrival. This case is not a one-off incident. A 28-year-old man in Hyderabad allegedly died in February this year after undergoing a cosmetic dental procedure at a private clinic to enhance his smile just days before his wedding.
Be aware of misleading advertisements
An area of concern is when people fall victim to misleading advertisements and claims about cosmetic surgeries. It is always better for the patient to meet the doctor in person and assess their qualifications. Patients should seek professionals who instil confidence and demonstrate expertise, ensuring they feel comfortable with the clinic's setup.
The onus lies upon the surgeon and patient to do their research. Effective communication between them is paramount. Asking the right questions to make an informed decision goes a long way. Experts have stressed that for a successful operation outcome, it is a 50-50 job between the surgeon and the patient.
Parameters for NABH accreditation
It is important to do extensive research about the whole facility available at the clinic. A good place to start is to check whether clinics possess accreditations from recognised bodies, such as National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), which establishes quality standards in healthcare.
NABH has developed relevant and accessible quality assurance methods for clinics. The parameters for accreditation include access to quality treatment, good care of patients, hygiene, upholding patient rights, facilities management, fire safety measures, infection control, and managing records, among others.
Accreditation signifies a commitment to continuous improvement and patient safety, ensuring that rights are upheld and quality care is provided. Experts advocate for choosing established, reputable institutions equipped with experienced professionals, state-of-the-art technology, hygienic equipment, safety measures, board certifications, and accreditations to mitigate risks associated with cosmetic procedures.
The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the desire for cosmetic enhancements, driven partly by social media influence. Common cosmetic procedures among men include gynecomastia while women frequently seek rhinoplasty (nose job), lip job, and body contouring.
Take your time before making a final choice
As cosmetic surgery becomes increasingly popular, it’s essential for individuals to approach these procedures with caution. Instead of being swayed by flashy advertisements or marketing claims, patients should take the time to thoroughly research and verify the credentials of clinics and surgeons. Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon is critical to minimising risks and achieving satisfactory outcomes. Moreover, understanding the potential risks and having in-depth discussions with healthcare providers about the procedure can provide clarity and help set realistic expectations.
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Trouble ‘Miyas’ everywhere only then they will leave Assam: Himanta Biswa Sarma
Says “Himanta Biswa Sarma, BJP are openly against them, we are saying it openly
New Delhi: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday said that four to five lakh “Miya voters” would be removed from the electoral rolls in the state once the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists is carried out. He also made a series of controversial remarks openly targeting the Miya community, a term commonly used in Assam in a derogatory sense to refer to Bengali-speaking Muslims.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an official programme in Digboi in Tinsukia district, Sarma said it was his responsibility to create difficulties for the Miya community and claimed that both he and the BJP were “directly against Miyas”.
“Four to five lakh Miya votes will have to be deleted in Assam when the SIR happens,” Sarma said, adding that such voters “should ideally not be allowed to vote in Assam, but in Bangladesh”. He asserted that the government was ensuring that they would not be able to vote in the state.
The chief minister was responding to questions about notices issued to thousands of Bengali-speaking Muslims during the claims and objections phase of the ongoing Special Revision (SR) of electoral rolls in Assam. While the Election Commission is conducting SIR exercises in 12 states and Union Territories, Assam is currently undergoing an SR, which is usually meant for routine updates.
Calling the current SR “preliminary”, Sarma said that a full-fledged SIR in Assam would lead to large-scale deletion of Miya voters. He said he was unconcerned about criticism from opposition parties over the issue.
“Let the Congress abuse me as much as they want. My job is to make the Miya people suffer,” Sarma said. He claimed that complaints filed against members of the community were done on his instructions and that he had encouraged BJP workers to keep filing complaints.
“I have told people wherever possible they should fill Form 7 so that they have to run around a little and are troubled,” he said, adding that such actions were meant to send a message that “the Assamese people are still living”.
In remarks that drew further outrage, Sarma urged people to trouble members of the Miya community in everyday life, claiming that “only if they face troubles will they leave Assam”. He also accused the media of sympathising with the community and warned journalists against such coverage.
“So you all should also trouble, and you should not do news that sympathise with them. There will be love jihad in your own house.” He said.
The comments triggered reactions from opposition leaders. Raijor Dal president and MLA Akhil Gogoi said the people of Assam had not elected Sarma to keep one community under constant pressure. Congress leader Aman Wadud accused the chief minister of rendering the Constitution meaningless in the state, saying his remarks showed a complete disregard for constitutional values.
According to the draft electoral rolls published on December 27, Assam currently has 2.51 crore voters. Election officials said 4.78 lakh names were marked as deceased, 5.23 lakh as having shifted, and 53,619 duplicate entries were removed during the revision process. Authorities also claimed that verification had been completed for over 61 lakh households.
On January 25, six opposition parties the Congress, Raijor Dal, Assam Jatiya Parishad, CPI, CPI(M) and CPI(M-L) submitted a memorandum to the state’s chief electoral officer. They alleged widespread legal violations, political interference and selective targeting of genuine voters during the SR exercise, describing it as arbitrary, unlawful and unconstitutional.
