By choosing an NZCSM doctor, you can be confident that you are in good hands.
As the demand for cosmetic procedures increases, some consumers are looking for the best deal. They may hear of a cheap injector working out of their house and think it’s a great bargain. What many don’t realise is practitioners like these may have no New Zealand qualifications, use counterfeit products and dangerous techniques. The risks are not just a poor result, but complications down the track.
The NZ Society of Cosmetic Medicine was founded 15 years ago (check for update) to address these concerns and protect New Zealand patients from unqualified practitioners. NZSCM is the single (not correct anymore) unified body in Cosmetic Medicine in New Zealand, representing the profession and providing training, supervision and professional accreditation.
What differentiates a NZSCM doctor?
Cosmetic Medicine professional cannot merely ‘sign up’ to NZSCM. After qualifying as a Fellow of the GP College or other related Fellowships in surgery, dermatology or ophthalmology, a candidate applies to study the two year Diploma in Cosmetic Medicine.
The diploma course involves training workshops and lectures, and culminates in both written and practical examinations. Once a doctor passes the training programme, they become a Member of NZSCM. To ensure ongoing quality for patients, all members are assessed every three years to confirm participation in medical education and upholding of Society standards.
By choosing an NZSCM doctor you can be confident that you are in the hands of a well trained and competent practitioner, using safe and effective products.
With an NZCSM doctor you’ll be made fully aware of the details of the procedure, potential side effects, and the results you can realistically expect. Every patient has the right to delcine procedures, no matter how much time they have spent with their doctor in discussions.
NZSCM is about educating you, the patient, as well as our practitioners.
Before you go ahead with a treatment, check if your doctor is NZSCM accredited. Cheap cosmetic procedures may seem to save money, but you can end up paying a much higher price long term, fixing mistakes made by incompetent, poorly trained practitioners. In an NZSCM accredited clinic you can rest assured you will receive the best advice, be well-informed of the risks and results, and have a positive experience.
Words: Vanessa Bennett Images: Supplier, Header illustrated by Anna Sudit.