A doctor has called for further education to drive Botox "cowboys" out of Epping Forest after a rise in botched treatments.

Doctor Mark Holmes, of Al-Fa Perio Clinic in Buckhurst Hill, has said he has seen an increase in the number of women with asymmetrical eyebrows and swollen lips after taking cheaper options for potentially harmful beauty proceedures, such as Botox and dermal fillers.

The doctor, who has been working in the industry for 13 years, says he is now called by up to four women a week for help to rectify problems caused by poorly administered treatments.

He said: "One girl from this area came to me after going to a Botox party.

"She wasn't going to have anything done, but alcohol was being served and she was egged on by her friends. She had a filler in her lips.

"They were so big that she had to call in sick to work. She came to me and I had to dissolve the product from her mouth.

"I have seen people with asymmetry, people with an eyebrow that has dropped.

"People need to be educated so that we can drive the cowboys out of Epping Forest."

Dr Holmes believes the problems are caused by beauticians and nurses taking courses, but not being taught about the complexity of the human face.

He said: "If you are going to have it done, and there are many good people in the district, make sure you check the product. Botox is a trademark name.

"Ask about risks, if they tell you there are none then do not get it done. Make sure you fill out a consent form.

According to the doctor treatment should take around 40 minutes and should include a full assessment.