VIA: CNN.com
(CNN) — A new California law named for rapper Kanye West’s late mother requiring a physical exam and medical history before cosmetic surgeries isn’t likely to lead to better patient safety, some cosmetic surgeons said.
What the legislation calls for is already common practice, the doctors said. The new law also states that violating this provision “would not constitute a crime,” so charges would not result.
In effect this month, the Donda West Law requires a patient to receive a physical exam and written clearance from a doctor within 30 days before elective cosmetic surgery. California is believed to be the first state to pass such a requirement.
West, a former professor and chairwoman of the English department at Chicago State University, died on November 10, 2007, a day after getting cosmetic procedures on her breasts and abdomen in Los Angeles, California. The 58-year-old was a major influence in her son’s life and had been featured in the Grammy-winning artist’s lyrics.
The Los Angeles County autopsy report attributed West’s death to “coronary artery disease and multiple post-operative factors” and found no sign that her death stemmed from a surgical mistake.
The Donda West Law reinforces what reputable cosmetic surgeons regularly do, several doctors said.
