4/6/06
Recent reports of “bogus” botulinum toxin Type A injections that resulted in the deaths of several women has prompted the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) to issue a warning to patients seeking aesthetic treatments from nonphysicians.
According to Rhoda Narins, past president of ASDS, patients are drawn to receive procedures at nonphysician offices because of how much these treatments cost.
“You wouldn’t entrust the care of your heart or kidneys to a nonphysician, so why should your skin be any different?” Narins asks.
To avoid experiencing complications from botulinum toxin Type A injections, ASDS advises patients:
• to make sure a board-certified physician is on-site and immediately available;
• to check the credentials of the person who will perform the procedure;
• to not go to someone’s home or a hotel room to receive a cosmetic procedure;
• to not rely on price as the determining factor;
• to not be afraid to ask questions;
• and to not be afraid to walk away.
