By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Two further illegal cosmetic surgery clinics have been uncovered since an illegal cockroach-infested salon in the back of a Springvale jewellery store was revealed.
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Dr Brett Sutton reported that at least 18 people have called its hotline over health concerns about the illegal ‘clinic’ at Thanh Loi jewellery shop at Shop G23, Springvale shopping centre in Buckingham Avenue.
It traded as Sonoun Kimlee Salon, operated by Lee Kim Tan since early 2018, the Department of Health states.
Patients are being warned they’re at risk of blood-borne viruses such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV.
“Past clients have told us about poor quality treatments and unsafe practices. All have been the advised to see their GP to test for hepatitis and HIV,” Dr Sutton said.
As a result of recent tipoffs, another two cosmetic-surgery clinics operated by the unregistered Ms Tan in Springvale have been uncovered – at her own home and a second store at the back of 234 Springvale Road.
The Department of Health and Human Services is continuing its investigation into Ms Tan.
Ms Tan performed “high-risk” cosmetic procedures such as tattooing, eyelid cutting, skin peels, mole removal and facial filler injections.
“I want to reiterate how important it is to only receive cosmetic services in a registered facility using hygienic processes,” Dr Sutton said.
“The risk of infection, injury and permanent damage is very high if premises do not employ suitably qualified staff and practice suitable infection control measures.”
The Department had contacted 68 known clients today, with records of 122 patients. “However record keeping was poor,” a spokesperson said.
There could be hundreds from mainly Cambodian and Vietnamese backgrounds, he said.
“It was discovered when Dandenong Council investigated reports of people leaving the jewellery store with blood on their faces,” he said.
“They also found cockroaches around injectable bottles.”
The Department is yet to receive reports of clients becoming unwell from visiting the salon. The risk of contracting hepatitis B and hepatitis C is rated as “moderate”, the risk of HIV as “low”.
“The emotional and financial costs associated with restorative work following infections and poorly performed procedures is considerable,” Dr Sutton said.
“We are contacting clients we are aware of. If you, or someone you know, had cosmetic procedures at this salon, see your doctor as soon as possible to have a blood test.”
The Health Complaints Commissioner has issued an interim prohibition order against the salon operator from advertising or providing any cosmetic or medical procedures.
Greater Dandenong Council has closed the salon and removed all equipment and medicines, according to the Department of Health.
It is responsible for prosecuting the operator for breaches of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act.
Dr Sutton advised people with concerns to check if a salon is registered with its local council.
“And people should check the online AHPRA database if they think someone is falsely claiming to be a medical practitioner.”
A fact sheet on the incident is being issued in English and Khmer at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/unregistered-beauty-therapist
To complain about cosmetic procedures, ring the Health Complaints Commissioner on 1300 582 113 or contact hcc.vic.gov.au/make-complaint
