Last November 2011, Groupon, a major deal-of-the-day website was prohibited from publishing cosmetic surgery ads that offer up to 50% discount. UK officials believe that the campaign sent out a misinterpretation that plastic surgery procedures could be taken lightly.

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) deems that Groupon were negligent for posting such advertisements that somewhat pressured consumers to purchase the coupons for a limited period of time.  The said cheap nose job and breast augmentation promotional email was sent in May with the treatment to occur on November 28 at a Manchester clinic.

The ban was also substantiated by the British Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). They believe that such deadlines are unethical and a violation of social responsibility under UK’s advertising code. However, Groupon denied these allegations. According to their representatives, they were not persuading people to make hasty decisions, and that the offer was just an indicator of their business model.

As ethical cosmetic surgeons and members of BAPRAS, Landauer Cosmetic Surgery concur with the ASA’s decision. First off, having a cosmetic procedure is a life-altering decision. It’s not like purchasing goods that you can return or exchange if you’re not satisfied. That’s why a lengthy consultation between a reliable fully accredited cosmetic plastic surgeon and his/her patient is very crucial before undergoing any invasive procedures.

Proper timing and a great deal of preparation, plus other essential factors are extremely important for successful cosmetic plastic surgery. Thus, deadline-focused bargain deals are definitely not recommended for anyone looking to go under the knife.

Many healthcare organisations in the UK are condemning cosmetic surgery lottery draws that are quickly becoming popular. The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) and Independent Healthcare Advisory Services (IHAS) have disapproved aesthetic procedures like breast augmentation, botox and face lifts being offered as prizes in contests, online deals, loyalty card schemes and the like.

Medical professionals believe plastic surgery marketing gimmicks like these are persuading people to get procedures they don’t need or want. Their worries emerged shortly after the launch of My Big Fat Plastic Surgery Prize Draw. Sponsored by a cosmetic surgery group, the event offers prizes that range from boob jobs, botox and fillers, semi-permanent makeup, teeth whitening and others.

While many people are living with superficial flaws, health authority groups are firm on not offering cosmetic treatments as a commodity prize. Ex-president of BAAPS Adam Searle stated that people who are making permanent choices based on propaganda, thrill and emotion, are putting themselves in great danger. Besides, cosmetic surgery enthusiasts are some of the most vulnerable patients, and thus, they require protection against greedy advertising advocates.

And though, you can freely participate in such raffles and competitions, it’s best to avoid these kinds of events. Try not to be persuaded no matter how convincing and truthful they may seem, as many of them are just misleading publicity stunts.

Remember that plastic surgery is a life-changing decision and hence should not be taken lightly. As a rule of thumb, do your research first before booking any cosmetic surgical or non-surgical treatment. And of course, choose only certified plastic surgeons to perform your desired procedure by talking to Landauer Cosmetic Surgery.