Former Tattooist Posing as a Medical Doctor Caused Severe Facial Disfigurement

A recent BBC investigation has revealed that Sean Scott, a former tattooist, falsely presented himself as a medical doctor at his clinic, Reshape U, in Hull, where he referred to himself as “Dr. Sean Scott, Clinical Director.” Despite his marketing claims, Scott held no formal medical qualifications, instead purchasing an honorary doctorate online. One of his clients, Andrea, suffered severe facial disfigurement after receiving botched filler procedures from Scott. Despite her worsening condition, Scott allegedly dismissed her concerns, attributing the symptoms to insect bites and encouraging further treatments. Andrea's health deteriorated to the point where she required hospitalisation and has since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Following concerns raised about Scott's credentials, health and safety officers from Hull City Council visited his premises in 2024. Although they identified several issues, no formal action was taken at that time, as the business was receptive to their requests. Scott claimed that his clinic had taken advice and "totally reviewed all our procedures" since then. He added: "While we may have made mistakes in the beginning, we have always given 100% of our ability to our clients. We have learnt valuable lessons and progressed with ongoing training and development already."

One of his clients, Andrea, suffered severe swelling, discolouration, and long-term scarring after receiving face fillers. Her condition worsened despite numerous treatments, eventually leading to hospitalisation and a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Left, Andrea before and, right, two years on from her treatments.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about the lack of regulation in the UK’s aesthetics industry, where non-medically trained individuals can perform invasive procedures. Industry experts, including the Harley Academy, have been vocal in demanding urgent reforms to safeguard patient safety.

Tristan Mehta, Founder and CEO of Harley Academy, stressed:

“The UK urgently needs tighter regulatory frameworks to ensure only medically qualified practitioners can administer treatments. We are calling for swift regulatory action to protect patients and prevent further tragic outcomes. This includes:

Mandatory Medical Qualifications – All practitioners offering invasive procedures should hold medical qualifications.
Licensing and Oversight – Clinics and practitioners must be held accountable through a formal licensing system, ensuring regular inspections and adherence to high standards of care.
Public Awareness – Patients must be made aware of the risks and know how to identify qualified practitioners. More needs to be done to educate the public about the importance of seeking out credible, highly trained professionals.”

This investigation follows multiple tragedies in the industry, including a recent death linked to a Brazilian Butt Lift procedure, which was conducted by an untrained individual.

Harley Academy and other industry leaders continue to push for regulatory changes to ensure only medically trained professionals perform invasive cosmetic treatments, aiming to prevent further harm and raise safety standards across the UK’s aesthetic industry.