New AHPRA / Medical Board Regulations for Cosmetic Surgery from 1st July 2023

Important Notice for Cosmetic Surgery Patients

The Medical Board of Australia and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulatory Agency (AHPRA) are making some changes to make sure that cosmetic surgery is even safer and better for patients like you.

Here are the key changes you need to know:

1. Need a GP Referral for a Consultation with a Surgeon: From July 1, 2023 it will be necessary for all patients to have a referral from their regular doctor, called a GP referral, before they can have a consultation for surgery. This is to improve your safety and make sure you get the best care possible.
   
2. More Consultations before surgery: Instead of just one consultation, you will need to have at least two consultations with the doctor. This is to make sure you have all the information you need and feel comfortable with your decision.
   
3. Pre-Screening Assessment: Before having cosmetic surgery, you will need to take a special test called a Pre-screening Assessment Test (PAT) before cosmetic surgery. This is to help the doctor understand your needs and make sure you are making the right choice.
   
4. Take Your Time: After your consultations, there will be a cooling-off period of at least seven days. This means you’ll have time to think about your decision before booking the surgery. It’s important to be sure and feel confident.
   
5. Higher Standards and Experience: The doctors who perform cosmetic surgery will have even higher standards in training and experience. This means they will be even more qualified to take care of you.
   
6. Safe Facilities: All surgeries must be done in special facilities that meet certain standards. These facilities will be accredited to make sure they are safe for you.
   
7. Advertising Rules: The rules for advertising cosmetic surgery will be tougher. This is to make sure that all the information you see is clear and honest.

We know this might sound like a lot, but it’s all to make sure you have the best experience possible. If you want more information about these changes, you can visit the Medical Board’s FAQs reforms page or talk to our staff.

Remember, if you have already booked your surgery for after July 1, 2023, we will let you know if anything changes. And if you have any questions at all, you can call our team at (02) 8310 4576.

Take your time, do your research, and make sure you feel comfortable with your choices. We’re here to help you every step of the way!

Further Reading

More information about the new regulations for cosmetic surgery:

• Guidelines for Medical Practitioners Who Perform Cosmetic Surgery – ASAPS
• Health regulation needs more than ‘cosmetic changes’ – ASAPS
• New screening rules for people seeking cosmetic surgery – ASAPS
• New Cosmetic Surgery and Botox Rules will clog our straining Health System – ASAPS
• AHPRA Cosmetic Surgery Update 3rd April 2023

FAQs about Cosmetic Surgery Requirements for a GP Referral – AHPRA Website

All invasive surgery carries risk and requires a recovery period and a good follow-up care regime. Make sure you do your research and seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon before proceeding.