Facelift Surgery
A facelift, known medically as a rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the face and neck. Saggy skin and excess fat are removed, the muscles are tightened and wrinkles are reduced. This will ease the signs of ageing, creating a more youthful look.
Facelift Medical Negligence
However, there are sadly times when a surgeon fails to demonstrate due care and attention during the operation. Not only will this mean that a patient's wishes are not fulfilled, but it can lead to long-term complications.
But when exactly does facelift surgery amount to medical negligence? First of all, it is important to note that there are well known risks of rhytidectomy. A patient should be informed of these before signing a consent form to surgery, including:-
- Infection;
- Haematoma (bleeding);
- Hair and skin loss;
- Complications from the anaesthetic;
- Pain;
- Facial numbness.
Many of these risks are unavoidable and cannot be prevented by the surgeon.
Nevertheless, there are occasions in which complications arise as a direct result of a surgeon's actions or inactions. For example, if a surgeon performs the operation without the necessary skill and expertise and this leads to an injury, then there will be a case of medical negligence. Additionally, if a patient's appearance is made worse than before surgery, or if he/she is left to suffer pain or disfigurement, then a compensation claim can be made.
Facelift Compensation Claims
Negligently performed facelifts can have a devastating effect on a person's life. This was demonstrated by Penny Johnson, a business woman from Surrey, who suffered nerve damage around the eye and right cheek during a facelift. Alongside the physical injury, she suffered extensive psychological harm, causing her business to fold and her marriage to deteriorate. She took her claim to court and, in May 2011, was awarded a six figure settlement.
While not all negligently performed facelifts will result in permanent disfigurement such as this, it remains true that anyone who has been the victim of medical negligence is legally entitled to make a medical negligence claim. This allows those injured at the hands of medical professionals to claim compensation for the pain and suffering they have experienced. It also provides an opportunity to recover any expenses lost, such as a loss of earnings or the cost of revisional surgery.
Speak to a Solicitor
Every case of cosmetic surgery negligence differs. That is why it is important to ask a medical negligence solicitor to assess your case. This will help you understand your legal position, allowing you to know whether or not you are able to make a medical negligence claim.
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Early legal assistance can be vital so please contact us if you would like to discuss your situation. Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Can We Help You With A Medical Negligence Enquiry?
Early legal assistance can be vital so please contact us if you would like to discuss your situation. Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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