England proposes restricting high-risk cosmetic procedures to qualified clinicians

The government has opened a consultation on proposals to restrict who can carry out high-risk cosmetic and wellbeing procedures in England. Cosmetic surgery, including liquid Brazilian butt lifts, would be restricted to doctors.

The proposals also cover certain injectable and laser treatments, and would restrict procedures to people aged 18 and over, with exceptions for NHS provision or treatment of a medical condition. The BBC reported that breaches could become criminal offences and providers could face fixed fines of up to £4,000. The department says the Care Quality Commission would take enforcement action against providers who do not comply. The government is seeking views on the procedures and professional groups to include before plans go through parliament in spring 2027, according to the BBC.