Cosmetic surgery is one of the fastest growing types of medical procedures in Australia. The Cosmetic Institute’s new initiative set the standard for better practices in the cosmetic surgery industry in Australia by welcoming its first appointed psychologist Maria Faustino of the Marquee Health Club. As Australia’s largest cosmetic surgery provider, the Cosmetic Institute is putting its industry clout to good use by calling for more support and guidance for cosmetic surgery patients. Along with other industry authorities that are beseeching patients to “Think Over Before you Make Over”, Maria Faustino’s role with Cosmetic Institute is to ensure that patients are mentally and emotionally fit to undergo cosmetic surgery.
Although solid figures are relatively unknown, the Medical Board of Australia and medical practitioners acknowledge that the demand for cosmetic surgery is booming. The commercial nature of the patient-doctor relationship where the provider has a financial incentive to urge the patient to opt for surgery has caused a disproportionate number of medical complaints and disappointment. The Cosmetic Institute’s sterling record of positive outcomes, professionalism and exceptional patient care and support distinguishes it from the majority of unqualified and unregulated cosmetic surgery practitioners.
With figures suggesting that Australians are outspending the US on cosmetic procedures, cosmetic surgery is fast becoming a lucrative but potentially dangerous industry that has yet to be properly regulated. Maria Faustino who has practiced out of her office in Sydney’s CBD has seen many pre-surgery patients through the years. She stresses the importance of the need for patients to be clear on the reasons for surgery and highlights a number of red flags that should be addressed. These can be:
- Experiencing a crisis – patients who are going through significant life events such as divorce, job loss or death of a loved one
- External pressure from friends, family or a partner
- Unrealistic expectations
- Pain management issues
- Dysfunctional health habits such as eating disorders, excessive exercise or diet
The Cosmetic Institute operates two Internationally Accredited clinics in Sydney’s Parramatta and Bondi Junction. For more information, visit The Cosmetic Institute.