Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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716. To ask the Minister for Health if he will support the Irish College of Ophthalmologists on its concerns relating to advertisements for certain surgical procedures and treatments such as laser refractive surgery and cosmetic procedures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31626/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Following concerns expressed in relation to the safety and quality of surgical cosmetic procedures in Ireland, the Office of the Chief Medical Officer prepared, in collaboration the Irish Association of Plastic Surgeons, a short guideline containing a number of recommendations for individuals who may be considering surgical cosmetic procedures. Much of this guidance and the recommendations for patients, which was issued in July 2012, is equally relevant to those patients considering laser refractive surgery and cosmetic procedures. The guidance is available on the Department's website.

With regard to the provision of information to the public and advertising by a registered medical practitioner, the Medical Council guidance states that a medical practitioner must make sure that the information published in the advertisement is true, verifiable, does not make false claims or have the potential to raise unrealistic expectations. This should include information about any inherent risks associated with the services provided.