Our Summary

This research paper explores whether Female Genital Cosmetic Surgery (FGCS) - surgeries that alter the appearance of healthy female genitals for non-medical reasons - might be considered a violation of the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003. This act makes it illegal to alter or cause injury to a girl’s or woman’s genital organs for non-medical reasons.

The paper concludes that FGCS does appear to qualify as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) according to the Act. However, it also notes that based on guidance issued by the Crown Prosecution Service in 2019, it’s unlikely that someone would be criminally prosecuted for it, because it’s not typically considered to be in the public’s interest.

Finally, the paper criticizes the difference in how these surgeries are viewed and treated when performed on Western women versus non-Western women, calling it discriminatory. It suggests that by accepting FGCS, we may inadvertently be giving legitimacy to FGM, which could potentially allow people to skirt around the law banning FGM.

FAQs

  1. Does Female Genital Cosmetic Surgery (FGCS) violate the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003?
  2. What does the CPS guidance issued in 2019 say about FGCS?
  3. How could allowing FGCS potentially legitimize FGM and circumvent the FGM Act 2003?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient considering cosmetic surgery is to carefully research the procedure, the surgeon, and the potential risks and benefits. It is important to have realistic expectations and to prioritize your overall health and well-being. Additionally, it is important to consider non-surgical options and to consult with a qualified medical professional before making any decisions.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended cosmetic surgery are those who are in good physical health, have realistic expectations, and have specific concerns about their appearance that they would like to address. Common reasons for seeking cosmetic surgery include improving self-esteem, correcting physical imperfections, reversing the signs of aging, and enhancing physical features. It is important for patients to have a thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.

Timeline

Before cosmetic surgery:

  1. Patient decides to undergo cosmetic surgery after consulting with a surgeon and discussing their goals and expectations.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments and medical evaluations to determine if they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  3. Patient may need to make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or adjusting medication, in preparation for surgery.
  4. Patient discusses the risks and benefits of the procedure with their surgeon and signs informed consent forms.
  5. Patient schedules a date for the surgery and may need to make arrangements for recovery time off work or assistance at home.

After cosmetic surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure under anesthesia and is monitored by medical staff during and after the surgery.
  2. Patient experiences post-operative pain and swelling, which is managed with medication and rest.
  3. Patient follows post-operative care instructions, such as wearing compression garments, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
  4. Patient may experience emotional ups and downs as they adjust to their new appearance and wait for swelling to go down.
  5. Patient gradually sees the results of the surgery over time, with final results becoming more apparent after several months.
  6. Patient may undergo additional touch-up procedures or revisions to achieve their desired outcome.
  7. Patient enjoys increased confidence and satisfaction with their appearance, leading to improved quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the cosmetic surgery procedure I am considering?
  2. How many times have you performed this specific procedure and what is your success rate?
  3. Can you show me before and after photos of patients who have undergone this procedure?
  4. What is the recovery process like and how long can I expect it to take?
  5. Are there any non-surgical alternatives that may achieve similar results?
  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure and are there any risks associated with it?
  7. How long will the results of the surgery last and are touch-up procedures necessary?
  8. What are the potential long-term effects of the surgery on my health?
  9. Are there any specific lifestyle changes I will need to make before or after the surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in the procedure, including any potential additional fees for follow-up appointments or touch-up procedures?

Reference

Authors: Gaffney-Rhys R. Journal: Eur J Health Law. 2021 May 21;28(3):244-262. doi: 10.1163/15718093-BJA10046. PMID: 34022769