Consumer group Choice conducted a study to evaluate quality of service provided by cosmetic surgeons. Under the recent study, the women looking for cosmetic surgery treatment made 38 visits to 30 cosmetic surgery clinics in Sydney and Brisbane. These women enquired about breast augmentation, fat-removing liposuction or wrinkle-reducing Botox treatment. The study revealed some shocking facts.

In one of the clinics, the woman was shown a sales consultant's breasts as an example of the doctor's work. She was also offered a discount if she agrees to be pose for "before and after" photographs to be posted on the internet. Another woman was told that breast surgery will increase her chances to find a boy friend. Another woman was given unsolicited brochures offering loans to finance the breast procedure, which is not covered under Medicare.

Choice spokesman Christopher Zinn said: "We want to see better regulation and outcomes for patients. Until then, our best advice is to make sure of the qualifications and experience of any cosmetic surgeon you are considering, and to educate yourself as to the risks of any procedures."