'I had Botox and nine days later I couldn't breathe'

A woman has opened up on the terrifying moment she was rushed to hospital after being injected with ‘fake Botox’.

During Monday’s (July 14) episode of This Morning, three guests appeared on the daytime show to share their real-life stories and the reality of botched procedures.

Among them was Lynsey Wanless, who admitted that she felt her “body shutting down” just nine days after reversing the injections.

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Ahead of the show she candidly opened up and said: "I went to get botox in someone's house, I've had it before so I didn't think it would be an issue.”

She added: “I had no idea anti-wrinkle treatments could be dangerous but nine days later I was in hospital. I felt like my body was shutting down and I couldn't breathe. This has ruined my life."

A This Morning survey has shown that half of women who have undergone non-surgical cosmetic procedures required medical assistance afterwards, and 15% ended up in hospital or A&E.

Highlighting the findings on This Morning, the research aims to raise awareness of the rise of ‘cosmetic cowboys’ in the rapidly-growing aesthetics industry and what viewers should look out for if undergoing treatments themselves.

The investigation found that half the cosmetic procedures happened in non-clinical settings including living rooms or kitchens. Respondents also said half of aesthetic procedures were not carried out by someone medically qualified.

Speaking on the shocking results, This Morning’s GP Dr Zoe Williams said: “I was shocked by the results of our This Morning survey. I understand that cosmetic procedures are highly attractive and a low price tag is incredibly tempting but I urge our viewers to be vigilant, advocate for themselves and ask questions to ensure the treatments they are receiving are safe."

She added: “As an absolute minimum you should have evidence that the person is appropriately qualified and if injectables are being used, knowledge of who has prescribed them.”

On Tuesday, July 15, This Morning regular, Ashley James, will also candidly open up her own experience and says: “There’s so much shame and secrecy surrounding non-surgical cosmetic procedures, and yet so many people – especially women – are having them, whether they admit it or not.

“This Morning's investigation made me realise that I’d never thought to check whether anyone giving me botox was medically qualified, or whether the products being used were licensed in the UK. I’d just assumed they were. That’s frightening. I wish I’d known more about the risks from the start, and I know I’m not alone.”

During the discussions on the show over the next couple of days, viewers will hear practical advice and guidance from Save Face, who operate a Government-approved register to find accredited practitioners.

This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV, ITVX, STV and STV Player