An outbreak of devastating facial stigmata caused by a single unlicensed aesthetic practitioner
- Author:
Daiwon JUN
1
;
Daheui KIM
;
Min Suk PARK
;
Young Jin KIM
;
Jung Ho LEE
Author Information
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Archives of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 2022;28(4):126-129
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:The practice of medicine by uncertified personnel is a common concern in public healthcare. Although the introduction of the Korean National Health Insurance Service has significantly reduced the number of these cases, the problem persists in the field of aesthetics. Herein, we report an outbreak of devastating facial stigmata in patients treated with illegal cosmetic procedures.
Methods:During 1 week in November 2021, five patients presented to Bucheon St. Mary’s Hospital for the management of identical patterns of severe facial scarring. Each patient had been treated for “skin rejuvenation” by a single unlicensed practitioner. Months of needling therapy by the practitioner, aimed at resolving the problem, only aggravated the scarring. The victims visited our hospital after the practitioner ceased to answer their calls. The patients had similar presentations with multiple prominent scars on both cheeks. Ectropion of the right lower eyelid due to scar contracture was observed in one patient.
Results:Five monthly treatments with intralesional triamcinolone injection and laser therapy were performed. Despite thorough management, the patients were left with improved but distinctive stigmata on their faces.
Conclusions:Cases of illegal aesthetic procedures are difficult to prosecute because the patients have implicitly agreed to the procedure. Therefore, active legislative measures should be adopted to prevent further victimization. Public education on the dangers of illegal aesthetic practices is also necessary.
