Dr. Rajetha Damisetty, a prominent dermatologist based in Telangana, has been actively campaigning against unqualified individuals performing cosmetic dermatology procedures. As the chairperson of the anti-quackery cell of the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists, and Leprologists (IADVL), she has raised concerns about beauticians, dentists, and holders of unrecognized degrees offering complex skin and hair treatments without proper medical qualifications.
In a recent interview with fitness expert Purnima on YouTube, Dr. Damisetty made remarks suggesting that “dentists are not doctors,” which led to widespread criticism from the dental community. The All India Dental Students and Surgeons Association (AIDSA) condemned the statements, accusing Dr. Damisetty and Purnima of undermining the dental profession. AIDSA called on the Telangana State Dental Council to take disciplinary action and announced plans to file a police complaint.
Following the backlash, both Dr. Damisetty and Purnima issued public apologies. Dr. Damisetty expressed “unconditional” regret and clarified that the controversial clip was taken out of context from a longer interview aimed at raising awareness about unqualified practitioners. She emphasized that the video was not intended to disparage dentists and has since been removed from YouTube.
Escalation to Online Harassment
Despite the apology, Dr. Damisetty has become the target of online abuse, including personal attacks and misogynistic comments. She reported that many of the abusive messages originated from accounts with no clear ties to the dental profession. Dr. Damisetty stated that the harassment has extended beyond professional criticism, affecting her personal life and character.
“These attacks are not just about my words, but about my personal life, my character, and my work,” Dr. Damisetty told South First. “There are clear misogynistic overtones. If I were a man, I doubt I would have been able to withstand such a level of viciousness.”
She believes that the backlash is a response to her efforts to expose unethical practices in cosmetic dermatology, particularly by individuals performing procedures without proper qualifications.
Legal Actions and Advocacy
In response to the harassment, Dr. Damisetty has taken legal steps, including filing complaints with the Cyberabad police and the Telangana State Medical Council. She has also issued legal notices to individuals who posted defamatory content about her. Additionally, she has filed a complaint with the Telangana State Dental Council, seeking action against dental professionals involved in verbal bullying and defamation.
Dr. Damisetty emphasized that her campaign against unqualified practitioners is focused on patient safety and public health. She highlighted the dangers of misdiagnosis and improper treatment by untrained individuals, which can lead to serious complications such as burns, scarring, and permanent skin damage.Telangana Today
“Allowing unqualified personnel to perform cosmetic procedures leads to misdiagnosis, emotional trauma, financial exploitation, and loss of confidence in the healthcare system,” she said.
Regulatory Framework and Ongoing Challenges
Under the National Medical Commission Act, 2023, the treatment of skin, hair, and nail diseases falls within the purview of qualified dermatologists, venereologists, and leprologists. Furthermore, a notification by the Dental Council of India (DCI) dated December 6, 2022, prohibits dentists from performing cosmetic procedures unless they hold an MD in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Despite these regulations, the prevalence of unqualified individuals performing cosmetic procedures remains a concern. Dr. Damisetty continues to advocate for stricter enforcement of existing laws and increased public awareness about the importance of seeking treatment from qualified medical professionals.
“The aim of these inflammatory posts is not just to target me but to drive a wedge between two respected medical communities and mislead the public, all to cover up the unregulated practices going on,” she said.
Dr. Damisetty’s efforts underscore the need for ongoing vigilance and action to protect patients from the risks posed by unqualified practitioners in the field of cosmetic dermatology.
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