Experienced Solicitors For Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Claims
Cosmetic and plastic surgery must be performed to strict clinical standards. Surgeons, aesthetic practitioners and clinics owe you a duty of care to keep you safe before, during and after treatment. When that duty is breached and you suffer avoidable harm, you may be able to bring a cosmetic surgery negligence claim.
Our clinical negligence solicitors act for clients who received substandard cosmetic, plastic or aesthetic procedures. We understand how difficult it is when results fall far short of what was promised. We will review what happened, gather expert evidence, and guide you through the process of making a claim.
For a free, confidential consultation, call us on 0161 665 3502, send an email to [email protected] or use our contact form.
What Counts as Cosmetic or Plastic Surgery Negligence?
Negligence occurs when a professional provides care that falls below the standard expected of a competent cosmetic or plastic surgeon. This can happen at any stage of treatment, including consultation, surgery and aftercare.
Examples include:
- Surgical errors causing uneven results, tissue damage or avoidable scarring
- Inadequate aftercare leading to infection or poor wound healing
- Failure to warn about known risks or obtain proper consent
- Unsafe techniques, poor hygiene or unsterile equipment
- Incorrect administration of injectables resulting in nerve damage
- Negligent performance of non-surgical cosmetic treatments
Complications can have long-term physical and psychological effects, often requiring revision surgery.
Common Types of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Claims We Handle
Complications can include infection, scarring, asymmetry, nerve damage, burns and poor cosmetic results.
Surgical Procedures
- Breast enlargement, breast reduction and breast lift surgery
- Tummy tucks (abdominoplasty)
- Gastric band and weight-loss surgery
- Facelifts
- Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping)
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
Non-Surgical and Aesthetic Treatments
- Dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections
- Chemical peels
- Laser skin treatments
- Cosmetic dentistry
Case Study: £14,000 Compensation After Negligent Breast Reduction Surgery
Miss M underwent bilateral breast reduction surgery. Her smoking status was discussed during the initial examination and noted again during the consent process. After surgery, she continued to go outside the hospital to smoke while recovering as an inpatient.
She disclosed that she smoked, and this was noted during the consent process. While recovering in hospital, she continued to go outside to smoke.
She Miss M developed repeated wound infections that required several procedures, including surgeries under general anaesthetic. The infection became so severe that she suffered nipple necrosis, ultimately losing both nipples and later requiring cosmetic tattooing.
Garratts obtained expert evidence identifyingconfirming failures in her care and secured achieved a £14,000 settlement for the significant physical and psychological impact of her injuries.
Settlement Following Negligent Facial Cosmetic Treatment
We also represented a woman who underwent a cosmetic facial procedure at a private clinic. The practitioner used unsterile equipment and provided no aftercare guidance. She developed a serious infection that left permanent scarring.
Garratts secured compensation to fund corrective treatment and to recognise the long-term impact on her wellbeing.
How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Cosmetic Surgery Claim?
To bring a successful claim, two points must be proven:
- Breach of duty, i.e. the surgeon or clinic failed to meet acceptable standards of care.
- Causation means this failure directly caused your injury or worsened the outcome.
We will obtain your medical records, arrange independent expert reviews from cosmetic and plastic surgeons, and advise you clearly on whether your claim is likely to succeed.
What Compensation Can I Claim?
Compensation for cosmetic or plastic surgery negligence may cover:
- Pain and suffering
- Visible scarring or disfigurement
- Psychological distress and loss of confidence
- Revision or corrective surgery
- Loss of earnings
- Travel, treatment and rehabilitation costs
Our aim is to secure the support you need to recover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the First Step to Making a Cosmetic Surgery Compensation Claim?
A: Contact our specialist team for a free, confidential consultation. We will listen to your experience, provide early guidance, and explain how a No Win No Fee claim works. There is no obligation to proceed.
Do I Need to Complain to the Surgeon or Clinic First?
A: Not always. Some clients prefer us to investigate before making a formal complaint. We can advise you on the best approach depending on your situation.
Is There a Time Limit for Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Claims?
A: Yes. You usually have three years from the date of the negligent treatment or from when you first realised the outcome was caused by negligence.
For children, the three-year period begins on their 18th birthday.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
A: Most cosmetic surgery claims settle before trial. Court proceedings may be issued to progress the case, but full hearings are rare. If going to court becomes necessary, we will guide you through each step.
Can I Claim for Psychological Distress After Negligent Cosmetic Surgery?
A: Yes. Many clients experience anxiety, loss of confidence or trauma after negligent cosmetic treatment. These psychological injuries can form an important part of your compensation.
No Win No Fee Cosmetic Surgery Negligence Claims
Most claims at Garratts are funded through a No Win No Fee agreement, meaning there is no financial risk if your claim is unsuccessful. We offer:
