Cosmetic surgery is a significant decision, often driven by the desire to enhance one’s appearance and boost self-confidence. However, cosmetic surgery is the least regulated medical discipline in Ireland. As such, the chances of a patient needing to bring a cosmetic surgery claim* are higher. When cosmetic surgery or procedures do not go as planned, it can lead to severe injuries. If you have experienced substandard cosmetic surgery in Ireland, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you can take to seek compensation.
The Increase in Popularity of Cosmetic Surgery in Ireland
In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the popularity of cosmetic surgery in Ireland. With more people seeking procedures to enhance their appearance or address cosmetic concerns, the demand for skilled practitioners has surged. This rise in popularity has also brought to light the importance of ensuring that cosmetic procedures are performed safely and with the highest standard of care. As the industry grows, so does the potential for complications and, unfortunately, cases of medical negligence*.
Why Choose Hanahoe and Hanahoe LLP
Hanahoe and Hanahoe LLP are a leading medical negligence law firm, with considerable expertise in cosmetic surgery claims*. We have offices in Naas, Dublin, Portlaoise, Maynooth and Clane and advise clients on cosmetic surgery compensation claims* from across the country. We understand the serious injuries that negligent cosmetic surgery can cause and the psychological impact it can have on the patients. Our medical negligence solicitors* will not only provide you with expert advice, but they will treat you with compassion and empathy.
Common Cosmetic Surgeries and Procedures
In Ireland Cosmetic surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures, including but not limited to:
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- Facial Procedures: Facelifts, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), and lip augmentation.
- Body Contouring: Liposuction, tummy tucks (abdominoplasty), and body lifts.
- Breast Surgery: Breast augmentation, reduction, and lifts.
- Non-Surgical Treatments: Botox injections, dermal fillers, and laser skin resurfacing.
Understanding Cosmetic Surgery Claims*
A cosmetic surgery claim arises when a patient suffers an injury due to negligence or breach of duty of care of a medical professional. This can include surgical errors, inadequate pre-operative advice, lack of informed consent, and poor post-operative care. Common cause of claims* include:
- Surgical Errors
- Inadequate Technique: Errors during the procedure, such as improper incision or technique, leading to unsatisfactory results or complications.
- Wrong Procedure: Performing an incorrect or unintended procedure, which can result in harm or failure to achieve the desired outcome
- Post-Operative Complications
- Infection: Poor infection control practices leading to infections.
- Delayed Healing: Issues with wound healing, which can be due to poor surgical technique or negligent aftercare.
- Unapproved or Unsafe Practices
- Use of Unapproved Devices or Products: Using unapproved surgical devices or materials leading to complications or adverse reactions.
- Non-Compliance with Standards: Not adhering to recognised medical or safety standards, resulting in harm to the patient.
- Negligent Aftercare
- Inadequate Follow-Up: Failure to provide proper post-operative care or monitoring, which can lead to complications or prolonged recovery times.
- Failure to Address Complications: Not addressing or treating complications that arise after the procedure in a timely manner.
- Botched Procedures
- Unsuccessful Results: The final outcome of the surgery is not as expected or promised, leading to dissatisfaction and potentially requiring additional corrective procedures.
- Visible Scarring: Significant or unsightly scarring that was not adequately disclosed or managed, impacting the patient’s appearance and self-esteem.
Common Cosmetic Surgery Injuries
The most common cosmetic surgery injuries our medical negligence solicitors* see are:
- Infections: Infections can occur at the site of the surgery. If such infections are not treated in a timely and effective manner, they can lead to serios injuries, such as sepsis
- Scarring : Visible scars that may be larger, more prominent, or in a different location than anticipated.
- Hematoma and Seroma
- Hematoma: Accumulation of blood outside of blood vessels, causing swelling and pain.
- Seroma: Accumulation of fluid in the surgical area, which may require drainage.
- Wound Healing Problems: Issues such as delayed healing, wound dehiscence (wound opening), or necrosis (tissue death).
- Nerve Damage: Loss of sensation, numbness, or tingling in the area affected by surgery.
- Asymmetry: Uneven results where one side of the body does not match the other, such as in breast augmentation or facial surgeries.
- Complications with Implants
- Capsular Contracture: Formation of scar tissue around an implant that can cause hardness and distortion.
- Implant Rupture: Breakage of the implant shell, leading to leakage and potential complications.
- Excessive Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising that extends beyond the normal recovery period.
- Pulmonary Embolism: This is a very serious condition where blood clots travel to the lungs, potentially causing difficulty breathing, chest pain, or even death.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is the formation of blood clots in the deep veins, usually in the legs, which can cause swelling, pain, or potentially lead to a pulmonary embolism.
Bringing a Cosmetic Surgery Negligence Claim
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and well-being are the priority. Ensure you receive the necessary medical treatment to address any complications arising from the cosmetic surgery.
- Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, treatments, and communications with medical professionals. Photographs of the affected areas can be crucial evidence.
- Consult a Cosmetic Surgery Claims Solicitor*: Engage with a solicitor, like Hanahoe and Hanahoe LLP who experienced in medical negligence and cosmetic surgery claims*. They can provide tailored advice and guide you through the legal process.
- Gather Evidence: Your solicitor will help you collect all relevant medical records, expert opinions, and witness statements to support your claim.
- File the Claim: Your solicitor will file the claim against the responsible party, whether it’s a surgeon, clinic, or hospital.
What Compensation Can Cover
Successful cosmetic surgery claims can cover a range of damages, including:
- Medical expenses for corrective procedures
- Loss of earnings due to time off work
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological distress
- Rehabilitation costs
Contact Us Today
If you would like further information of cosmetic surgery negligence claims* who of our solicitors will happily answer any questions you may have
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For professional legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a qualified medical negligence solicitor*.