Introduction
On 1st July 2023, new advertising regulations were implemented in Australia to more closely oversee cosmetic surgery advertisements. These guidelines apply to all cosmetic surgery practitioners and were introduced to ensure patient safety. The majority of medical practitioners practising cosmetic surgery in Australia are members of three professional organisations: the Australian Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), the Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), and The Australian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine (ACCSM). The purpose of this study was to assess how well these practitioners comply with the new advertising regulations.
Method
This study involved reviewing the websites of medical practitioners listed on the ASPS, ASAPS, and ACCSM association websites in Victoria, Australia, between 1st and 30th September 2023. Three reviewers conducted the audit. The study used the "Guidelines for Registered Medical Professionals Who Advertise Cosmetic Surgery", issued by the Medical Board of Australia, which became effective on 1st July 2023, as the reference for evaluating compliance.
Result
A total of 158 practitioners were identified, with 120 qualifying for the audit. Among these, 18% of ASPS members, 33% of solo ASAPS members, and 71% of ACCSM members were found to be in violation of at least one guideline.
Conclusion
In Victoria, ASPS members were found to be more compliant with the newly updated advertising regulations compared to ACCSM members. It is recommended that all cosmetic surgery practitioners review their advertising practices to ensure they comply with the updated regulations.