Plastic surgeons supported online

The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons has been offering members business support through Covid-19 webinars. Ms Nora Nugent reports

Ms Nora Nugent

The most devasting effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have undeniably been on those who have fallen critically ill with the virus, including the many lives lost and on their families. 

The UK has suffered a healthcare crisis, an economic shut-down and a ‘stay home’ and social distancing directive, all of which will have long reaching implications and are unprecedented in our times.

Plastic surgeons have been affected in many ways. Some have contracted Covid-19 or have had family members who have had it. 

Most UK plastic surgeons work in the NHS and have been redeployed to help contain the spread of coronavirus and treat those affected in one way or another. 

As is the case across the medical spectrum, elective patients have had their appointments and procedures postponed in both the NHS and private sectors for safety reasons and to allow the private hospitals to support the health service. 

Plastic surgeons in private practice have also faced the economic implications of reduced or no income, while continuing to accrue business overheads and expenses.

This has particularly and severely affected those in full-time private practice and those who own and run independent clinics.