What Falls Under Cosmetic Negligence?
November 1, 2019
As the popularity of cosmetic treatments rises throughout the UK, the risk for cosmetic negligence, and cosmetic surgery compensation, unfortunately, does too. As with all medical negligence claims, knowing what qualifies as negligence is half the battle. Only then can you assess whether you are able to make a successful claim. The problem with cosmetic negligence is that it may take the claimant a while to realise that their surgery is at the root of their discomfort, but that doesn’t mean you should be put off taking action. Before you take the next step, find out what falls under cosmetic negligence.
The Cosmetic Surgery Industry in the UK
Recent trends have contributed to the rise in cosmetic procedures being sought, with the NHS alone spending millions of pounds each year to help people achieve their dream look. The figures spent on private clinics are estimated to be even higher; while most clinics offer renowned procedures and aftercare, this isn’t the case for all surgeons. Cosmetic procedures can result in lifelong pain, and even blood poisoning if not carried out correctly.
With the increased popularity of these treatments, the price has also been driven up by demand. This means that although cosmetic procedures are growing in the UK market, many clients may choose to have more affordable treatment abroad. With fewer regulations in place to protect them, these clients are more likely to suffer from cosmetic negligence.
When You Can Claim Cosmetic Negligence
Some types of surgery may result in cosmetic negligence more than others, such as:
- Breast enlargement.
- Cosmetic dentist work.
- Gastric band surgery.
It may take a while for you to realise something is wrong, but most people will have a rough idea after a few weeks. This is because most cosmetic procedures will involve a lot of pain while your body heals and adapts. It is only when this timeframe has passed, and the pain becomes unbearable, that people can claim cosmetic negligence.
However, it is not just pain and discomfort that fall under cosmetic negligence. For example, someone receiving breast implants may be poisoned due to substandard implants being used during the procedure, as they may go on to burst. While breast implant complications are rare, it is one of the procedures which runs the most risk to patients. If a patient has not been fully informed about the risks involved in this kind of procedure, the result has not complied with patient wishes, or their surgeon has failed to obtain full consent, then these are also times when you can claim cosmetic negligence. This is true for a whole range of cosmetic procedures.
Serious mistakes may result in a patient having to spend more money to rectify a problem, causing long term stress and sometimes intense trauma. These are all factors you should consider when researching if you have a viable claim, as they will all support your case.
Taking the Next Steps
When you are certain that your cosmetic issue is due to negligence, you can then go about making a claim against your practice. Having the right solicitor by your side will give you much needed legal support, and they will do all they can to strengthen your claim and reboot your road to recovery.