Two regimes matter most for a London clinic. The Care Quality Commission regulates some cosmetic procedures, and London boroughs license premises that offer special treatments such as laser treatments. Which applies depends on what you do and where, so check both before you buy.
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change and depend on your circumstances. Confirm with the regulator, your borough and a qualified adviser.
Care Quality Commission registration
The CQC says it does not regulate all cosmetic treatments, only those that involve surgical procedures. Its guidance says services must register if they offer liposuction, which it says includes laser lipolysis, and cosmetic surgery involving instruments or equipment inserted into the body. It says it does not regulate laser and intense pulsed light treatments such as hair removal or skin rejuvenation.
Endolift uses a fibre placed under the skin and is promoted for both skin tightening and fat reduction, so whether a given service needs CQC registration depends on what you offer and who carries it out. Do not assume either way. Read the CQC guidance on cosmetic surgery and treatment of disease, disorder or injury, and ask the CQC if you are unsure.
London special treatment licences
Part II of the London Local Authorities Act 1991 says premises cannot be used as an establishment for special treatment in a borough that has adopted the provisions except under a special treatment licence. Councils decide which treatments are covered, set conditions and charge fees, and laser treatments are often included. Exemptions can apply, so each borough's rules differ.
Contact the licensing team of the borough where your clinic is located. Many councils publish their special treatment policy and application forms, for example Tower Hamlets.
Laser safety obligations
Employers must manage the risks from artificial optical radiation, including lasers, under the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010. In practice that means a risk assessment, controlled access, correct eyewear and trained staff, usually with advice from a laser protection adviser. See our guide to Endolift laser safety.
Insurance
Check that your professional indemnity and public liability insurers will cover Endolift, and that they accept the training of whoever will perform it. Insurers may ask about your registrations and licences.
Buying a used laser
The MHRA treats a second hand medical device as already on the market, so it does not need further marking by the new owner. See our used Endolift laser checklist for the paperwork to ask for.
Planning to buy? Our Endolift laser for sale in London can be inspected before you commit.
Looking for a used Endolift laser?
We have a Eufoton LASEmaR 1500 in London, bought January 2023 and used for fewer than 100 treatments. Inspection can be arranged and training with Dr Rohit Seth is available at an additional cost.