The Beauty Standard with Dr. Roy Kim
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The Beauty Standard with Dr. Roy Kim
Bridging the Gap: Safety and Affordability in Med Spas
The episode dives deep into the complex world of med spas, highlighting the surge in their popularity and the accompanying safety concerns surrounding procedures like liposuction. With regulatory gray areas and personal client experiences revealing broader issues, the conversation emphasizes the necessity for responsible practices and consumer awareness in this booming industry.
• Overview of med spas as a growing industry
• Discussion on the legal battle of Karen Jean Anderson
• Examination of liposuction procedures performed in med spas
• Insights into patient experiences and safety concerns
• The role of nurse practitioners and their training
• Issues with marketing and transparency in med spa treatments
• Importance of consumer education and diligent research into providers
• Calls for regulations, accreditation, and higher standards in the industry
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Join us next week as we explore another fascinating topic in the world of beauty, and remember: your body, your choice, your standard!
Welcome to the Beauty Standard with Dr Roy Kim.
Speaker 2:Hey, everyone, welcome back, ready for another deep dive. Today we're taking a closer look at the world of med spas.
Speaker 1:Med spas.
Speaker 2:Yeah, you know those businesses that are kind of like a hybrid of a medical clinic and a day spa.
Speaker 1:Okay, yeah, I've heard of them. They're popping up everywhere these days.
Speaker 2:Exactly, and business is booming. But we're going beyond the glossy facades and the social media hype. It sounds intriguing. We're diving into some of the potential risks, especially when it comes to procedures like liposuction.
Speaker 1:Liposuction in a med spa. That's a little concerning.
Speaker 2:It is, and we're going to unpack all of that with a really fascinating article from Bloomberg. This piece takes us right into the middle of a legal battle. That's article from Bloomberg. This piece takes us right into the middle of a legal battle that's happening in Utah.
Speaker 1:A legal battle.
Speaker 2:Yeah, it's a case that's really raising questions about, well, who should be allowed to perform these types of procedures and what are the safety implications.
Speaker 1:Okay, I'm all ears.
Speaker 2:So to set the stage, let's talk about the med spa industry itself. It's just exploded in recent years, I mean it's estimated to be a $17 billion industry annually.
Speaker 1:Wow, $17 billion. That's huge.
Speaker 2:It is, and there are over 10,000 med spas nationwide. And get this, they're projecting another thousand to open just next year.
Speaker 1:So what's driving this massive growth?
Speaker 2:Well, for one thing, med spas offer that combination of convenience and affordability. You can pop in for a quick treatment during your lunch break.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:It's less intimidating than a hospital setting. Plus there's the whole social media factor.
Speaker 1:Yeah, the before and after photos, the influencers, all that stuff.
Speaker 2:Exactly. It creates this almost aspirational image like anyone can achieve these amazing transformations.
Speaker 1:Right, but there's got to be a catch right.
Speaker 2:Well, that's where this Bloomberg article comes in.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:It points out that this rapid growth has happened in a bit of a regulatory gray area. The rules haven't quite caught up with the pace of the industry.
Speaker 1:So it's like the Wild West of cosmetic procedures.
Speaker 2:In some ways, yeah, and that's creating some serious concerns, especially when it comes to procedures like liposuction, which brings us to the case of Karen Jean Anderson. She's a nurse practitioner in Utah and she was banned from performing liposuction after a patient filed a complaint and the state launched an investigation.
Speaker 1:Wow, so this is serious stuff.
Speaker 2:It is Now she's actually suing the state, claiming the law actually allows her to perform the procedure.
Speaker 1:So it's a legal battle over who can do what Exactly.
Speaker 2:And it's currently before the Utah Supreme Court, so this is a case that's really in the spotlight. It's forcing us to examine who should be allowed to perform these procedures and what the safety standard should be.
Speaker 1:Makes sense. Now for those of us who aren't you know, medical experts, can you break down what liposuction in a med spa setting actually looks like?
Speaker 2:Sure. So in a med spa they typically use what's called tumescent liposuction.
Speaker 1:Tumescent liposuction.
Speaker 2:It involves injecting a large amount of fluid, which has a local anesthetic, into the treatment area.
Speaker 1:So you're numbed but awake.
Speaker 2:Right and that fluid helps to break down the fat cells, making them easier to remove. Then they use this small tube called a cannula to suction out the fat.
Speaker 1:So it's not like traditional liposuction where you're under general anesthesia in a hospital.
Speaker 2:No, it's often marketed as awake lipo or twilight lipo. Because you're awake during the procedure and because it's done under local anesthesia, it can be cheaper than traditional liposuction.
Speaker 1:So quicker, cheaper, maybe a bit less intimidating. Sounds appealing on the surface.
Speaker 2:Yeah, it plays on that desire for a less invasive option, but that also raises questions about safety right. Is this something that should even be happening in med spa?
Speaker 1:That's a good question.
Speaker 2:Even the American Med Spa Association, AMSPA, advises against performing liposuction in med spas. They cite safety concerns. And here's another thing the FDA approves those devices used for liposuction, but they don't regulate who actually uses them.
Speaker 1:Wait. So technically anyone could get their hands on a liposuction device and just do it In theory, yes, which is a pretty scary thought. Yeah, it's a recipe for disaster, if you ask me.
Speaker 2:And that's why this case in Utah is so significant. It's forcing us to confront these questions about standards of care, training requirements and, ultimately, patient safety.
Speaker 1:Okay, I'm starting to see how this all connects. So we've got a booming industry, legal battles, potential safety concerns. Where do we go from here?
Speaker 2:Well, to understand the whole picture, we need to look at the broader context. There's this growing trend of nurse practitioners seeking out entrepreneurial opportunities, and the med spa industry is a perfect fit.
Speaker 1:I can see why, but why are nurse practitioners specifically drawn to this field?
Speaker 2:One factor is the rise of what's called full practice authority. In many states it basically means they can practice independently without a physician overseeing their every move.
Speaker 1:Ah, so more autonomy, more flexibility.
Speaker 2:Exactly, and that's incredibly empowering for nurse practitioners who want to build their own businesses, but it also raises questions about their training and preparedness for specialized procedures.
Speaker 1:Like liposuction.
Speaker 2:Yeah, like liposuction. Even though they have full practice authority, they might not have the same level of training as, say, a plastic surgeon who specializes in liposuction.
Speaker 1:That's a big difference in expertise.
Speaker 2:It is and, to complicate things further, there's a lack of formal, standardized training programs specifically for med spa procedures like liposuction.
Speaker 1:So how are these nurses learning to do liposuction? Are they just winging it?
Speaker 2:Not exactly. The cosmetic industry has stepped in to fill that gap.
Speaker 1:Oh, how so.
Speaker 2:There are companies offering short courses on procedures like liposuction. Sometimes it's just a few days of training offered with a hefty price tag attached.
Speaker 1:Wow, a few days of training and then you're out there performing liposuction. That's a little unnerving.
Speaker 2:It is, and it really underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to training and credentialing in this field.
Speaker 1:Absolutely so. We've got nurse practitioners with full practice authority but potentially lacking the specific training, and then you've got these quickie courses. What does this mean for patients?
Speaker 2:Well, that's where the Bloomberg article really gets personal. It shares the stories of two women who had very different experiences at Bell Medical, the same med spa where Karen Jean Anderson worked.
Speaker 1:Oh, this is where it gets real.
Speaker 2:Yeah, this is where we see the human impact of all of this.
Speaker 1:So the first story is about the patient who actually filed that complaint against Karen Jean Anderson.
Speaker 2:Oh, wow.
Speaker 1:She went to Bell Medical for a breast augmentation and liposuction Right and she chose to do the awake lipo.
Speaker 2:So she was awake during the entire procedure.
Speaker 1:Yeah, and in this case, the patient described experiencing extreme pain during the procedure.
Speaker 2:Oh, wow.
Speaker 1:And she said she was basically told to just be quiet and she later developed complications.
Speaker 2:Oh no.
Speaker 1:This is what led her to file the complaint with the state, which started the whole investigation.
Speaker 2:That's just. It's awful.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:It makes you wonder if there was adequate pain management in place or if her concerns were even heard.
Speaker 1:Exactly, and it really brings up those concerns about the risks of doing liposuction in a med spa setting.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:The article also talks about the testimony of Dr Mark Jensen, a plastic surgeon who treated this patient after her complications.
Speaker 2:So he saw firsthand what had happened at the med spa.
Speaker 1:Exactly and his testimony is pretty revealing. What did he say Exactly and his testimony is pretty revealing.
Speaker 2:What did he say?
Speaker 1:He raised concerns about the sterility of the med spa environment, the lack of emergency support if something goes wrong and even the qualifications of the staff performing these procedures.
Speaker 2:That's scary.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it really emphasizes those potential dangers if things aren't done properly.
Speaker 2:Absolutely so.
Speaker 1:this isn't just about someone being unhappy with the results. It's about their actual health being at risk, exactly Okay. So that's one patient story. What about the second woman Right? The article also features Sarah Nethercott, who went to a different Bell Medical location.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:This one was in Idaho and she thought she was going in for a 3D body contouring procedure 3D body contouring.
Speaker 2:What even is that?
Speaker 1:That's just. The article highlights that this kind of vague marketing language is really common in the med spa industry.
Speaker 2:Ah, so it sounds fancy and appealing, but it might not give you a clear picture of what you're actually getting.
Speaker 1:Exactly. And in Sarah's case, she didn't realize she was getting liposuction until after the procedure. You're kidding, nope. And to make matters worse, she ended up with an infection and had to go to urgent care.
Speaker 2:Oh my gosh.
Speaker 1:This really raises questions about transparency and informed consent.
Speaker 2:Right. Patients should know exactly what procedure they're getting, the potential risks and who is actually performing it.
Speaker 1:I completely agree.
Speaker 2:This is just wild to me. It's like they're using this misleading language to attract people.
Speaker 1:It definitely brings up some ethical issues. For me, it's like they're using this misleading language to attract people. It definitely brings up some ethical issues for sure it really does. So we've got these personal stories that show us those risks associated with med spa procedures.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:We've got this ongoing debate about training and qualifications and now we're seeing how tricky marketing can create even more confusion and potential harm for patients.
Speaker 2:It feels like a recipe for disaster waiting to happen.
Speaker 1:And it's crucial to remember that this is bigger than just liposuction.
Speaker 2:Oh right, you mentioned earlier that the article touched on other treatments too.
Speaker 1:Yeah, it talks about a range of them, from injectables like Botox and fillers to laser treatments.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:And even things like vampire facials.
Speaker 2:Wait, vampire facials. Yep, okay, now I have to know what is a vampire facial.
Speaker 1:Well, it involves taking your own blood, separating out something called platelet-rich plasma, okay and then injecting it back into your face.
Speaker 2:Oh, wow.
Speaker 1:The idea is that it stimulates collagen production and rejuvenates the skin.
Speaker 2:That's interesting.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 2:But also a bit well, vampire-ish. I know right it makes me wonder about the safety and effectiveness of some of these treatments that are, you know, all over social media.
Speaker 1:Absolutely, and that's where being an informed consumer really comes in.
Speaker 2:So how can people protect themselves in this well wild west of med spas?
Speaker 1:The article offers a few suggestions.
Speaker 2:Okay, tell me more.
Speaker 1:First, don't just rely on social media or those online reviews.
Speaker 2:Good point.
Speaker 1:You really have to dig deeper Check the credentials of the providers, look for board certifications. Make sure they have specific training and experience in the procedures they offer.
Speaker 2:So don't be shy about asking questions and doing your homework.
Speaker 1:Right and don't be afraid to ask about their safety protocols, emergency procedures and what happens if something goes wrong.
Speaker 2:Yeah, you want to feel confident that you're in good hands.
Speaker 1:For sure.
Speaker 2:Especially if it's a procedure that involves, you know, needles or lasers or your own blood.
Speaker 1:Exactly, and it's also important to have realistic expectations.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 1:The article mentions that a lot of these med spas use before and after photos that can be heavily edited.
Speaker 2:Oh, yeah, those perfect transformations.
Speaker 1:Right, so don't go in expecting to walk out looking like a completely different person.
Speaker 2:It's a good reminder that those photos are just marketing tools.
Speaker 1:Exactly.
Speaker 2:Okay, so we've talked about the risks, the marketing tactics and how listeners can protect themselves Right, but what about the bigger picture? Is there anything being done to regulate this industry and make it safer?
Speaker 1:That's the question, isn't it? Yeah, the article mentions that some states are starting to crack down on med spas, particularly regarding who can perform certain procedures, like the case in Utah. And then there's this increasing interest from private equity firms in buying up med spas.
Speaker 2:Oh interesting. Why are they so interested?
Speaker 1:Well, they see it as a profitable market.
Speaker 2:That makes sense.
Speaker 1:But their involvement could actually be a good thing when it comes to regulation.
Speaker 2:Oh, how so.
Speaker 1:Well, private equity firms are very risk averse.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:They want to make sure the businesses they invest in are operating safely and ethically.
Speaker 2:I see so they might actually push for higher standards.
Speaker 1:Exactly.
Speaker 2:Okay, that's a good point. I hadn't thought about that.
Speaker 1:And then there's the possibility of accreditation.
Speaker 2:Like a seal of approval.
Speaker 1:Exactly, the article talks about Quad A, which is a surgical industry accreditor, and they're planning to introduce accreditation rules for med spas.
Speaker 2:That could be a game changer.
Speaker 1:It could and it would give consumers a way to tell the difference between those med spas that are committed to safety and quality and those that might be cutting corners.
Speaker 2:I see so it could be a way for patients to make more informed choices.
Speaker 1:Exactly.
Speaker 2:That's great, but I'm also thinking wouldn't accreditation likely make these treatments even more expensive?
Speaker 1:You bring up a good point, and it's a trade-off that needs to be thought about carefully.
Speaker 2:Right.
Speaker 1:The goal should be to balance accessibility with safety.
Speaker 2:Okay, that makes sense.
Speaker 1:We want these treatments to be available to people, but not at the expense of their well-being.
Speaker 2:Exactly so, as we head into the final part of this deep dive, I'm wondering is there a happy ending to this story?
Speaker 1:I like that you said happy ending.
Speaker 2:Yeah, Can we picture a future where med spas offer those valuable services but also make patient safety a top priority?
Speaker 1:That's the hope, right Finding that balance between making these services accessible but also ensuring patient safety.
Speaker 2:Yeah, because it seems like those two things are often at odds with each other.
Speaker 1:Definitely, but I do think it's possible to achieve both. So, how do we get there? Well, it's going to take a multifaceted approach, that's for sure. Stricter regulations would be a good start. Right, we need better training and credentialing standards and more transparency in the marketing, so holding these med spas accountable for what they're promising. Exactly, and we need consumers to feel empowered to ask those tough questions.
Speaker 2:To do their research, basically.
Speaker 1:Yeah, because if we don't address this now, it seems like the potential for harm could really get out of hand.
Speaker 2:I agree, especially as the industry keeps growing at such a rapid pace.
Speaker 1:And I think it's important to remember that this isn't just about protecting consumers.
Speaker 2:Oh right, there's more to it.
Speaker 1:It's about protecting the reputation of the medical profession too.
Speaker 2:How so.
Speaker 1:Well, when you have unqualified individuals performing procedures they're not trained for, it can really erode the trust that patients have in the health care system.
Speaker 2:That's a really good point. It's about upholding those ethical standards.
Speaker 1:Exactly, patient safety should always come first.
Speaker 2:Absolutely, and you mentioned earlier that Quad A is looking into accreditation.
Speaker 1:Right, and I think that's a step in the right direction.
Speaker 2:So that could be the key to creating a safer med spa industry.
Speaker 1:It has the potential, yeah.
Speaker 2:It would provide those guidelines for best practices and give consumers a way to identify those med spas that are committed to safety.
Speaker 1:Yeah, but we also need to address that cost factor.
Speaker 2:Right, because accreditation could make treatments less affordable.
Speaker 1:It's something that needs to be considered for sure. Maybe tiered accreditation systems or financial assistance programs.
Speaker 2:Okay, so finding ways to keep these treatments accessible.
Speaker 1:Exactly Because the goal is to make sure everyone can benefit from these services without putting their health at risk.
Speaker 2:So, as we wrap up this deep dive, I'm curious health at risk? So, as we wrap up this deep dive, I'm curious are you?
Speaker 1:optimistic about the future of the med spa industry. You know I'm cautiously optimistic.
Speaker 2:I like that Cautiously optimistic.
Speaker 1:It feels like we're at a turning point.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 1:The decisions made now will shape the industry's future.
Speaker 2:Absolutely so. What's the key takeaway for our listeners?
Speaker 1:I think it's this Don't be afraid to ask questions, do your research and speak up for your own safety.
Speaker 2:Basically be an informed and empowered consumer.
Speaker 1:Exactly. The more you know, the better equipped you'll be to make those decisions about your health and well-being.
Speaker 2:That's such great advice, and it's a good reminder that your health is priceless. Couldn't agree more Well. On that note, I want to thank you, the listener, for joining us on this deep dive into the world of med spas.
Speaker 1:It's been a fascinating conversation.
Speaker 2:It has, and it's been eye-opening, to say the least.
Speaker 1:We've covered a lot of ground.
Speaker 2:We have and we hope this deep dive has given you some things to think about.
Speaker 1:And some tools to make those informed decisions. Absolutely so, as always, stay curious, stay informed and stay safe out there.