For the first time, people can see the doctor because they want to, not because they need to. Doctors have a negative image of accumulating wealth from the health woes of others. When possible, many people avoid doctors and self-medicate, which is why pharmacies are such a hit.

Aesthetic medical practice will allow doctors to play a positive role in society. Aesthetic medicine can yield better teeth, better skin, more hair and less fat. This can help one be more self-confident.

Individuals whose appearance results in lack of self-esteem tend to rely on comfort foods, avoid exercise and social activities, which may lead eventually to chronic diseases like diabetes and heart failure. On the other hand, an individual who is confident of his appearance tends to lead a healthier lifestyle to maintain his health in order to look good.

Drugs like Propecia and Viagra cannot be said to have purely medical benefits, so why are drug companies allowed to sell them?

Medical tourism is huge, so why should we channel Singapore dollars to support doctors in foreign lands over whom we have no control? Air travel is so cheap and convenient, people won't stop at making themselves look better.

Doctors should be left to self-regulate, because professional and personal pride is at stake.

I urge the authorities not to take a holier-than-thou attitude and not lag behind the curve in aesthetic medication in implementing new laws to regulate doctors.

Bob Oh Thiam Yeng