Medical bodies warn against unqualified practitioners, call for nationwide regulations to protect patient safety
Rising Concerns Over Unregulated Cosmetic Procedures
Leading medical associations in India have raised serious concerns about patient safety and training standards in aesthetic and hair transplant procedures. Doctors have urged the government to introduce stricter regulations and specialised training requirements, warning against the growing number of unlicensed and unqualified practitioners performing such treatments.
The issue was highlighted during a joint press conference by the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists and Leprologists and the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India at the Delhi Press Club.
Conflict Over Who Can Perform Hair Transplants
The controversy has intensified following permissions granted by the Dental Council of India, allowing MDS-qualified dental surgeons to perform certain aesthetic procedures and hair transplants under provisions of the Dentists Act, 1948.
According to medical experts, these procedures have traditionally been carried out by dermatologists and plastic surgeons trained under the National Medical Commission framework.
The DCI guidelines (2022) allow Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons to perform aesthetic procedures after adequate training and with proper infrastructure, including resuscitation equipment and post-operative care facilities.
Medical Experts Warn of Serious Health Risks
Medical bodies stressed that hair transplant and cosmetic procedures require deep knowledge of skin biology, hair disorders, infection control, and complication management.
They warned that allowing professionals without comprehensive medical training could increase risks such as:
- Severe infections
- Vision loss
- Surgical complications
- Even death in extreme cases
The concerns gained urgency after a recent incident in Kanpur where two engineers reportedly died following hair transplant procedures conducted by an unqualified practitioner.
Tamil Nadu Sets Precedent With Strict Guidelines
In February 2026, the Tamil Nadu Medical Council clarified that only Registered Medical Practitioners (RMPs) with valid qualifications and registration can perform aesthetic and cosmetology procedures involving skin and hair.
The move has been widely supported by medical associations, which are now demanding similar regulations across all states.
Experts Emphasise Need for Specialized Training
Speaking on the issue, Dr Vinay Singh, President of IADVL, highlighted the extensive training required in dermatology, including three years of postgraduate residency covering skin diseases, hair disorders, and advanced procedures.
Similarly, Dr Selva SeethaRaman of APSI stated that hair transplant and facial aesthetic surgeries fall beyond the legal and scientific scope of dental practice.
Misleading Online Ads Increasing Patient Risk
Doctors also flagged the rise of misleading advertisements and online listings promoting unverified practitioners as “dermatologists.”
They noted that:
- Social media marketing is influencing patients, especially youth
- Paid listings often misrepresent qualifications
- Patients are increasingly opting for unsafe, low-cost treatments
Medical bodies have called for stricter regulation of digital medical advertising to prevent fraud and protect public health.
Legal Battle and Government Intervention
The Tamil Nadu branch of IADVL has approached the Madras High Court, challenging the DCI guidelines.
During a hearing on January 21, 2026, the Court acknowledged a regulatory conflict between DCI and NMC and directed the Union Health Ministry to review the matter and ensure clarity in the interest of patient safety.
Advisory for Patients
Doctors have issued a public advisory urging patients to:
- Verify the doctor’s qualifications and registration
- Check the registration number on prescriptions
- Avoid treatments promoted through misleading advertisements
- Prefer certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons
They stressed that increased awareness and strict enforcement of regulations are essential to curb quackery and ensure safe medical practices.
