This month's Marie Clare magazine has a fascinating article on the proliferation of unlicensed professionals performing cosmetic medicine. While the article talks extensively about  individuals with no medical training who unscrupulously offer cosmetic procedures, it also discusses the increasing number of medical professionals outside the core cosmetic specialties of plastic surgery and dermatology (physicians, dentists and nurses) who are offering cosmetic procedures.  As per state and federal laws, any physician can put up a shingle to practice outside of their specialty. While this may be unwise, it is NOT illegal. It is perfectly legal for your gastroenterologist to perform your liposuction.  My professional opinion is that this is INCREDIBLY poor medicine and highly dangerous.  Taking a weekend seminar or on-line training does not prepare a person to perform cosmetic procedures or inject botox and fillers.  Fillers, Botox, cosmetic surgery - these are very specific treatments that need to be perfomed appropriately and safely by appropriately trained professionals.  Buyer beware!
 (If you are looking for a referral, you can check the website of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.)