Dr. Leah Totton Raises Alarm Over Rising Cosmetic Tourism Risks

Dr. Leah Totton, a prominent figure in the cosmetic industry and winner of *The Apprentice*, has expressed deep concerns about the increasing trend of cosmetic tourism. This practice sees thousands of individuals from the UK traveling abroad for cheaper cosmetic procedures, often exposing themselves to significant risks.

After winning the BBC show in 2013, Dr. Leah partnered with Lord Alan Sugar to establish Dr. Leah Clinic in central London. Since then, she has expanded her business to include additional locations in Essex and London, and recently introduced Dr. Leah Skincare in October 2022, achieving notable profits. Despite her success in the non-surgical cosmetic field, she is troubled by the implications of cosmetic surgery tourism.

Each year, a growing number of British citizens opt for surgical options abroad, often at a fraction of the cost encountered in the UK. While affordability is a driving factor, Dr. Leah emphasizes the inherent dangers of undergoing surgery without proper oversight and aftercare. “It’s really worrying, it’s a really worrying trend, a really concerning trend,” she stated in an interview, highlighting the serious risks associated with general anaesthesia and permanent surgical alterations.

Dr. Leah further elaborated on the psychological implications of cosmetic surgery, noting the necessity of thorough preparatory consultations to ensure candidates are suitable for such procedures. She remarked, “The surgery is a permanent change, and even the psychological sequelae of undergoing a permanent cosmetic change is something that you need to be supported through.”

In her role as a practitioner, Dr. Leah has witnessed numerous patients returning from overseas with adverse outcomes from procedures like face and neck lifts. She pointed out the difficulties in obtaining follow-up care in the UK, stating, “If you’ve had a botched outcome abroad, you’re going to find it difficult to get a UK surgeon to take on that case.” While the NHS may provide emergency treatment, it does not extend to correcting cosmetic surgery errors.

The allure of cosmetic tourism is frequently amplified by celebrity endorsements, with figures such as Katie Price promoting the practice. Dr. Leah stresses the importance of comprehensive evaluations by surgeons prior to any procedure. “The driver for going abroad to have surgery is the price,” she explained. “If the same treatment was available in the UK, no one is going to put themselves through the risk or frankly the inconvenience of having to get a four-hour flight.”

Despite her focus on non-surgical procedures, Dr. Leah has raised concerns with her surgical colleagues regarding the affordability of cosmetic treatments in the UK. “Is it that it’s no longer affordable to undergo surgery in the UK, and that’s why we’re seeing this exodus of patients going abroad?” she questioned.

Dr. Leah recognizes the media’s role in highlighting the dangers of cosmetic tourism. “You may not be aware of what the risks truly are, how much follow-up is required after a neck lift and a tummy tuck,” she warned. This awareness is crucial, as some surgeries, such as Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs), carry severe risks, including death.

The landscape of cosmetic procedures has evolved significantly over the past decade, with Dr. Leah noting a shift towards non-surgical options. Her clinics are now introducing more surgical solutions for neck sagging, set to launch in December. Additionally, she has expanded her offerings to include wellness services like B12 injections and IV drips, reflecting the growing demand for comprehensive care.

Dr. Leah’s journey into the cosmetic industry has not been without its challenges. Initially met with skepticism when pitching her business, she has witnessed a transformation in public perception regarding cosmetic injectables. “That stigma around having cosmetic injectables has been removed entirely in the UK,” she said, acknowledging the increase in popularity of these procedures.

Despite the advancements in the field, Dr. Leah remains cautious about the potential for adverse outcomes, especially as the industry sees more individuals opting for frequent treatments without proper guidance. “It’s a double-edged sword,” she remarked, noting the risks that can accompany poorly administered procedures.

Dr. Leah’s background includes work in Accident and Emergency, a role she describes as invaluable in her transition to the cosmetic sector. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed gratitude for her partnership with Lord Sugar, who provided crucial support and business acumen during the establishment of her clinics. “I didn’t go into *The Apprentice* with any business knowledge or experience, so I learnt on the ground with him,” she acknowledged.

Looking ahead, Dr. Leah has expressed a willingness to return to *The Apprentice* as a mentor, inspired by figures like Baroness Karren Brady. “One day, who knows? It’s something I’d definitely consider,” she said, showcasing her commitment to guiding others in the business world.

As the trend of cosmetic tourism continues to grow, Dr. Leah Totton’s insights serve as a reminder of the importance of thorough research and careful consideration before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.