Ethical and regulatory gaps in aesthetic medical practice in top Asian medical tourism destinations

• Main Author: Gopalan, Nishakanthi
• Format: Article
• Published: Springer 2024
• Subjects: R Medicine
• Online Access: http://eprints.um.edu.my/45050/
• Institution: Universiti Malaya

Aesthetic medicine merges art and medical sciences, focusing on the modification and enhancement of physical appearance through surgical and non-surgical procedures. While it is not globally recognized as a medical specialty, aesthetic medicine has become a cornerstone of medical tourism in several Asian countries, including India, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand. Despite its popularity, there is notable gap in literature concerning its ethical and regulatory perspective. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of existing regulations and ethical considerations in aesthetic medicine within the context of the selected Asian countries. Given the field’s growth and its potential impact on both domestic and international health practices, this study is significant for healthcare providers, policymakers, and consumers alike. By identifying areas for improvement in current regulatory frameworks, the paper advocates for further examination to ensure that stakeholder rights and well-being are adequately protected. © 2023, National University of Singapore and Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.