MPs Demand Immediate Ban on Brazilian Butt Lifts Over Safety Concerns
The Women and Equalities Committee of MPs has called on the government to implement an immediate ban on Brazilian butt lifts, accusing ministers of moving too slowly in regulating the cosmetic procedures industry. The committee warned that the current lack of oversight has created a dangerous "wild west" environment where patients undergo treatments in unsuitable locations like garden sheds, hotel rooms, and even public toilets.
Government Proposals Fall Short, Say MPs
While welcoming government proposals to restrict high-risk procedures like BBLs to specified healthcare professionals—which would effectively create a "de facto ban"—the committee insists this doesn't go far enough. In their report, MPs stated unequivocally: "High-harm procedures such as the liquid Brazilian butt lift, which has resulted in fatalities, should be banned immediately without further consultation."
The committee emphasized that the government's pace in introducing a comprehensive licensing system has been inadequate. "The government is not moving quickly enough in introducing such a system," the report noted, highlighting that currently "individuals without any formal training can carry out potentially harmful interventions, placing the public at risk."
The Current Regulatory Vacuum
Presently, there are no regulations governing who can perform non-surgical cosmetic procedures in the UK. This includes injectables like dermal fillers and botulinum toxin injections (commonly known as Botox), as well as laser therapy and chemical peels. A Brazilian butt lift involves injecting dermal fillers into the buttocks to increase volume and alter shape, a procedure that has proven particularly dangerous in unregulated settings.
The committee's recommendations extend beyond immediate bans. They propose establishing a licensing system for lower-risk procedures within the current parliamentary term, ensuring only suitably qualified practitioners can perform them.
Social Media's Role in Normalizing Risky Procedures
MPs also addressed the societal factors driving increased demand for cosmetic procedures. They suggested that body image issues exacerbated by social media and face-editing technologies are pushing more people toward these treatments. The committee expressed particular concern about influencers "normalizing" high-risk procedures through their platforms.
Additionally, the report recommended that the NHS begin systematically recording data on cosmetic procedures performed abroad, acknowledging the growing trend of medical tourism for such treatments.
Government Response and Safety Warnings
Health Secretary Wes Streeting previously committed in 2024 to improving safety for Britons traveling abroad for cosmetic procedures following several deaths. A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson responded to the committee's report, stating: "This government is taking action to crack down on cosmetic cowboys and root out dangerous treatments. Our tough new measures will ensure only qualified healthcare professionals will be able to perform the highest-risk procedures."
The spokesperson offered practical advice to consumers: "For anyone considering a cosmetic procedure, please check the provider's qualifications and insurance—and avoid treatments that appear suspiciously cheap." The department confirmed they will consider the committee's report and respond fully in due course.
