Tighter Plastic Surgery Rules

California lawmakers are pushing for tougher standards for clinics and surgeons that perform cosmetic surgery. The call for stricter patient safety protections comes in the wake of the high-profile death of Donda West, the 58-year-old mother of Kanye West, who died following cosmetic surgery. A coroner's report indicated that West died from heart disease. A physical exam conducted prior to surgery would have revealed her condition, but West's surgeon did not perform one, according to her family. AB 2968 would force cosmetic surgery candidates to have a physical exam before undergoing surgery. Another bill pending in the California state Senate would require inspections of outpatient facilities once every three years. But some physicians argue that the additional regulations will not change how cosmetic surgeons practice. "There's no way to control surgical judgment," says American Society of Plastic Surgeons Vice President Dr. Michael F. McGuire, who recommends instead tougher disclosure requirements for cosmetic surgeons. McGuire says all healthcare providers should be required to divulge data about their educational background and training before performing surgery. He supports laws that would allow only board-certified plastic surgeons to perform surgery.