The Risks of Choosing an Injector Based on Social Media: What You Need to Know
Social media has significantly influenced the way people discover cosmetic treatments, particularly injectable procedures. While platforms like Instagram can provide insights into different treatments, they can also create misleading perceptions of safety, experience, and quality. Selecting an injector based solely on a curated social media feed can pose serious risks to patient safety.
The Dangers of Relying on Social Media for Injectable Treatments
Recent cases have highlighted the consequences of choosing an injector without verifying their qualifications. In the UK, a patient experienced severe complications after selecting an injector based solely on Instagram. Unfortunately, many countries have limited regulations regarding who can perform injectables, increasing the risk of unsafe practices and poor outcomes.
Australia’s Regulations on Cosmetic Injectables
Australia has stricter regulations compared to some other countries, offering additional safeguards for patient safety. Key regulatory distinctions include:
- Injectables Are Schedule 4 Drugs – In Australia, cosmetic injectables are classified as Schedule 4 prescription drugs, meaning they must be prescribed by a doctor before being administered.
- Qualified Practitioners Only – Cosmetic injectable treatments must be performed by a registered medical practitioner or a nurse under the supervision of a doctor. At Absolute Cosmetic, patient safety is our top priority. Our nursing team undergoes rigorous, in-depth injector training supervised by master injectors to ensure they are confident and qualified to treat patients with diverse needs
- Strict Advertising Standards – The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulate advertising, prohibiting misleading promotions, patient testimonials, and unrealistic claims.
Despite these safeguards, not all clinics adhere to best practices. Some providers operate outside the intended medical framework, relying heavily on social media marketing rather than formal medical qualifications and proper oversight.
Why Experience and Medical Oversight Matter
At Absolute Cosmetic, we have been providing surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments for over 25 years. Our treatments are conducted by experienced doctors and highly trained nurses, ensuring compliance with Australian medical regulations and prioritising patient safety.
Key reasons to choose Absolute Cosmetic:
- Over 25 years of experience in the field of cosmetic medicine.
- Procedures performed by doctors and trained nurses under strict medical supervision.
- Compliance with Australian medical regulations and professional standards.
- Access to doctors on-site or immediately available in the event of complications.
- A commitment to patient safety, ethical practice, and evidence-based treatments.
How to Choose a Qualified Injector
When considering an injectable treatment, it is essential to conduct thorough research beyond social media. Key factors to consider include:
- Qualifications – Is the injector a registered medical doctor or a nurse working under proper supervision?
- Medical Oversight – Is there a doctor available on-site or easily accessible if complications arise?
- Experience – How long has the injector been performing these procedures?
- Regulatory Compliance – Is the provider part of a recognised medical organisation and operating within Australian health regulations?
- Independent Reviews – Seek unbiased reviews from reputable sources rather than curated social media testimonials.
Final Considerations
Cosmetic injectables should be approached with careful consideration, focusing on medical expertise and patient safety rather than social media appeal. Choosing a qualified and experienced injector with proper medical oversight is crucial to minimising risks and ensuring reliable outcomes.
At Absolute Cosmetic, we prioritise patient safety, ethical medical practice, and adherence to Australian regulations. If you are considering cosmetic injectables, we invite you to consult with our experienced team.
As part of our commitment to maintaining high standards in the cosmetic industry, we established the Cosmetic Injector Institute, an online training platform dedicated to educating and supporting medical professionals. This initiative ensures that practitioners receive comprehensive training under expert supervision, equipping them with the skills necessary to provide safe and effective treatments.
For more information, browse our treatment pages or call (08) 9389 9099 to schedule a consultation.
- General disclaimer:
The information provided is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions or undergoing treatments.
Patient outcomes can vary due to factors such as genetics, diet, age, exercise, lifestyle, weight, and overall health. It’s essential to understand that all invasive surgeries come with inherent risks and require a recovery period and specific care regimen.
Detailed information regarding surgical risks and complications is available on our website, but it is advisable to conduct thorough research and obtain a second opinion to ensure you are able to make an informed decision.
Please note that the information provided is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. Please be advised that surgical outcomes vary, from patient to patient, and comprehensive research is crucial before making any decisions.
ABSOLUTE COSMETIC, PERTH, W.A.
Operating out of five clinics across Perth, ABSOLUTE COSMETIC is a testament to the dedication and experience of Medical Director Dr. Glenn Murray and Director of Nursing Stephanie Murray. With over 20 years of full-time experience in aesthetic medicine under their belt, a holistic approach to aesthetic care includes a range of treatments, including non-surgical options to surgical procedures performed in our Class B Day Hospital, licensed by the WA Department of Health.