Mon Mar 23 15:31:30 UTC 2026: ### Doctors Raise Alarm Over Aesthetic Procedures Performed by Unqualified Practitioners

The Story:

The Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists (IADVL) and the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India (APSI) have issued a warning about the increasing number of unqualified practitioners, including Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) doctors, performing aesthetic procedures and hair transplants. They cite the Dental Council of India’s permissions granted under the Dentists Act, 1948, as a contributing factor, raising concerns about patient safety and the dilution of medical standards. The medical bodies urge patients to verify doctors’ qualifications and registration with the State Medical Council before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, highlighting a rise in cases of irreversible damage caused by untrained individuals.

Key Points:

  • IADVL and APSI are concerned about patient safety due to aesthetic procedures performed by unqualified practitioners, including MDS doctors.
  • The Dental Council of India’s permissions under the Dentists Act, 1948, allowing certain aesthetic procedures by dentists, is a key issue.
  • Patients are advised to verify doctors’ qualifications and registration with the State Medical Council.
  • There is a growing number of cases involving unqualified practitioners causing irreversible damage.
  • Hair transplant prices in India range from ₹30 to ₹120 per graft, with total expenses potentially reaching between ₹60,000 and ₹300,000 for a typical session.
  • The IADVL has initiated legal proceedings before the Madras High Court, challenging the Dental Council of India’s guidelines issued on December 6, 2022.
  • The Madras High Court directed the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to review the matter on January 21, to ensure regulatory clarity.

Key Takeaways:

  • The qualifications of medical professionals performing aesthetic procedures are under scrutiny.
  • Regulatory conflicts between the Dental Council of India and the National Medical Commission need resolution.
  • Patient safety is at risk due to the rise of unqualified practitioners.
  • Legal challenges and government intervention are underway to address these issues.
  • The growing demand for cosmetic procedures, particularly hair transplants, creates opportunities for both qualified and unqualified practitioners.

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