COVID-19 – E(A)SAPS recommendations for Aesthetic Surgery

E(A)SAPS has been following the recent developments of COVID-19 attentively.

As an organization specifically aimed at aesthetic plastic surgery societies and surgeons in Europe, we see it as our duty to give you specific advice as how to deal with the current situation. Of course, the situation will differ from one country to another depending on the phase of the spread of the virus locally. Nevertheless, some clear conclusions can be drawn.

Reduce spread
In light of past experiences and science it is clear that the coming weeks are crucial for the course of the epidemic in Europe and the world. One clear fact is that if we limit the number of social interactions the virus will spread slower, allowing us to be able to treat the ill. Hence the closure of schools, restaurants, sport events etc.
It is our duty as doctors to set a clear example and i think as plastic surgeons we have to lead by example. It will be inexcusable to burden the healthcare system with possible complications of Aesthetic procedures no matter how minute. Not to mention the use of resources (masks, gowns, medication) that could become rare in the coming months. It is thus the advice of E(A)SAPS to suspend all consultations, treatments (surgical and non-surgical) and operations for at least the coming 3 weeks until the situation becomes clearer. ”Social distancing” is the only thing we as a society can contribute to slow the spread of the virus.

Precautions
When treating patients who need our continued attention, we have to take all measures as described by the WHO and local governments.

Ventilators and other resources
In case we do not manage to reduce the rate of infections, it is likely that (like Italy) there will be a lack of ventilators to treat the seriously ill. In that case all unused ventilators are essential. All private clinic owners should report the available equipment to their National Society so that this important information can be shared with the local authorities/crisis centers. This is true for masks, gowns and medication as well.

Many of you will have already shared similar information with your colleagues, or have taken these decisions already and if so we commend you for that.
If you have not come to that we urgently advise you to share this.

Please stay safe and healthy,

on behalf of the Board and Committees of EASAPS.