When Cosmetic Surgery Goes Wrong: Understanding Your Right to Compensation
Cosmetic surgery is often marketed as a pathway to greater confidence and improved quality of life. But when things go wrong, the results can be devastating — both physically and emotionally.
Patients who undergo cosmetic or plastic surgery expect to be treated with care, skill and professionalism. Unfortunately, not all surgical outcomes meet these standards.
For those left with life-altering complications, emotional trauma, or even the loss of a loved one, the aftermath can be overwhelming.
Medical Negligence in Cosmetic Surgery
While most cosmetic procedures are elective, they still carry serious risks. When a surgeon fails to perform a procedure to an acceptable standard — whether through inexperience, rushed surgery, poor post-operative care, or inadequate risk disclosure — patients can suffer significant and lasting harm as seen on the recent A Current Affair: Drugs, death and a patient affair: Disgraced celebrity surgeon cleared to practice episode.
Common examples of complications linked to medical negligence in cosmetic surgery include:
- Permanent breathing difficulties following rhinoplasty
- Infection or tissue damage requiring emergency treatment
- Severe scarring or visible disfigurement
- Life-threatening complications from poorly performed surgery
- Ongoing psychological distress or trauma
These are not minor side effects — they may be signs of medical negligence, and patients may be entitled to claim compensation.
When Can You Claim Compensation for Cosmetic Surgery?
You may be eligible to make a cosmetic surgery compensation claim if:
- The surgeon failed to meet acceptable medical standards
- You experienced avoidable complications
- You were not properly informed of the risks involved
- There was inadequate follow-up care
- The practitioner was not properly qualified to perform the procedure
What Can Compensation Cover?
A successful claim can help you recover the costs and support you need to move forward. Compensation may include:
- Expenses for corrective or revision surgery
- Loss of income or earning capacity
- Ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering damages
- Psychological counselling and support
Why Legal Representation Matters
Cosmetic surgery claims can be complex, requiring careful legal and medical analysis. At Stacks Goudkamp, our experienced medical negligence lawyers have successfully represented clients in a wide range of cosmetic and plastic surgery claims.
We work closely with trusted medical experts to build strong, evidence-based cases — and support our clients every step of the way in seeking the compensation they deserve.
Don’t Suffer in Silence – Take Action Today
If you or someone you love has experienced complications or trauma following a cosmetic surgery procedure, you may be entitled to legal compensation.
Contact Stacks Goudkamp today for a confidential consultation with one of our experienced medical negligence lawyers.