The value of saying ‘No’

The aesthetics sector appears to be changing. Our consultations increasingly focus on natural, subtle changes to the face as a whole, rather than trying to modify one specific attribute, or chasing lines. Fortunately, this change in practice aligns well with our professional ethical codes. The NMC code (2018) states that nurses must ‘act with honesty and integrity at all times’ and ‘treat people in a way that does not take advantage of their vulnerability’. Patients who request a cosmetic enhancement because they are addicted to the procedure and the positive feeling it brings them, as opposed to having a genuine need for it, could be classed as vulnerable. It is our duty as health professionals to protect them from being taken advantage of, not only physically, but financially. Where is the justification for treating a young girl requesting unnaturally big lips? Are we acting with integrity when we treat someone knowing that they are likely to be unhappy with their treatment months down the line?