Cosmetic Surgery Negligence

We are currently acting for many women who have suffered cosmetic surgery negligence at the hands of disgraced cosmetic surgeons including Les Blackstock and Daniel Lanzer.

More and more people are turning to cosmetic surgery. Common cosmetic procedures include:

• facelifts
• tummy tucks
• liposuction
• breast augmentation/reduction
• rhinoplasty
• Botox and cosmetic fillers
• cosmetic dentistry

Complications are common and a good surgical outcome often depends on the skill of the operator. 

Common cosmetic surgery negligence areas include: 

• inadequate explanation of the risks of the surgery
• badly performed surgery – leaving severe and permanent injuries or unexpected scarring
• inadequate post procedural care
• complex surgery being done by doctors without appropriate training and/or skill
• the incorrect administration of drugs or anaesthesia during surgery – we’ve had cases where the surgery has been performed in the doctor’s rooms with “assistance” provided by the receptionist.

Investigating the skill and qualifications of the doctor performing the procedure is critical. Cosmetic surgery is not regarded as a specialty even though doctors are able to promote themselves as  “cosmetic surgeons”.  Any doctor can call themselves a cosmetic surgeon even though they have no recognised specialist surgical knowledge, training or experience.

Some argue that the best way of avoiding risk is to have a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon perform the cosmetic procedure. The surgeon needs to have a registered nurse and anaesthetist on hand.  Be clear about the level of care you will receive post procedure and where to seek further medical help if required. You can check your surgeon’s qualifications and history of complications online – see www.ahpra.gov.au.