Claiming Compensation for Negligent Breast Augmentation Surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide. While many individuals undergo this surgery to enhance their confidence and achieve their desired aesthetic, negligent practices by surgeons or clinics can lead to devastating physical and emotional consequences.
If you’ve experienced harm due to negligent breast augmentation surgery, you may be entitled to compensation.
At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we are here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the justice you deserve.
What is Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, or symmetry of the breasts, typically through the insertion of implants. It is performed for various reasons, including aesthetic enhancement, reconstruction after mastectomy, or correction of asymmetry. While most surgeries are completed without complications, negligence in any part of the process can lead to serious and life-altering outcomes.
Common Issues Arising from Negligent Breast Augmentation
Negligence during breast augmentation surgery can manifest in several ways, including errors in surgical technique, insufficient preoperative assessment, or inadequate postoperative care. Here are some of the most common issues associated with negligent practices:
- Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue around the implant hardens, causing pain, discomfort, and unnatural breast appearance. While this condition can sometimes occur naturally, negligence in sterile techniques or surgical placement can increase its likelihood.
- Infections
Inadequate hygiene practices or failure to prescribe proper postoperative antibiotics can lead to infections at the surgical site. Severe infections may require implant removal and additional corrective procedures.
- Implant Rupture or Leakage
Improper handling or use of defective implants can result in rupture or leakage. Silicone or saline leakage may lead to health complications and require revision surgery.
- Asymmetry or Poor Aesthetic Results
Negligent surgical techniques may lead to asymmetrical or uneven results, often leaving patients dissatisfied. Corrective surgeries are often necessary to achieve the desired appearance, leading to additional costs and emotional distress.
- Nerve Damage
Errors during surgery can cause nerve damage, leading to loss of sensation in the nipples or breast area. This damage can be temporary or permanent and significantly impact quality of life.
- Anaesthesia Errors
Improper administration of anaesthesia can result in severe complications, including allergic reactions, respiratory issues, or even cardiac arrest during surgery.
- Hematoma or Excessive Scarring
Hematomas (collections of blood outside blood vessels) can occur due to improper surgical technique, causing pain, swelling, and prolonged recovery. Poor suturing methods or failure to follow best practices may also lead to noticeable or excessive scarring.
How Negligence is Determined
To successfully claim compensation for negligent breast augmentation surgery, it must be demonstrated that the surgeon, clinic, or medical team failed to meet the standard of care expected in the circumstances. This can involve:
- Failure to Obtain Informed Consent: Patients must be informed of all potential risks and alternatives before undergoing surgery. Failure to provide this information may constitute negligence.
- Substandard Surgical Practices: Errors during surgery that deviate from accepted medical standards can result in harm.
- Inadequate Aftercare: Failure to provide proper postoperative instructions, follow-up care, or address complications promptly can be considered negligence.
- Use of Defective Implants: Employing faulty or non-regulated implants that cause harm may also form the basis of a claim.
How Ison Harrison Solicitors Can Help
At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that negligent breast augmentation surgery can have. Our experienced team is dedicated to guiding you through the claims process and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist:
Thorough Case Assessment
We will carefully evaluate your case, reviewing medical records, photographs, and other evidence to determine the extent of negligence and its impact on your life.
Expert Legal Advice
Our solicitors specialise in medical negligence claims and will provide tailored advice on the best approach to securing compensation.
Collaboration with Medical Experts
We work closely with medical experts to assess the standard of care provided, identify instances of negligence, and provide supporting evidence for your claim.
Compensation for All Losses
We will seek compensation to cover:
- Corrective Surgery Costs
Revision surgeries or additional treatments can be extremely costly. These may include removing or replacing implants, reconstructive procedures to address asymmetry or scarring, or treatments for infection-related complications. We aim to ensure you are reimbursed for all necessary corrective medical expenses. - Pain and Suffering
Negligence during breast augmentation can result in significant physical pain and emotional distress. This includes ongoing discomfort from complications, reduced self-confidence due to poor aesthetic results, and the anxiety or trauma of undergoing additional surgeries. We work to ensure compensation reflects the full extent of your suffering. - Loss of Earnings
Recovery from complications or revision surgeries often requires taking time off work. In severe cases, individuals may experience long-term impacts on their ability to work. We will calculate and pursue compensation for lost wages, bonuses, or career opportunities due to time away from employment. - Future Care Needs
Some complications, such as nerve damage or ongoing pain, may necessitate long-term care, physical therapy, or counselling. Future cosmetic corrections may also be required to restore appearance or confidence. We seek to secure compensation for all foreseeable care and support needs to ensure you are fully covered.
No-Win, No-Fee Claims
We provide No Win, No Fee agreements, giving you the confidence to pursue your claim without any financial risk. You won’t need to pay any upfront legal fees, and if your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t owe us anything.
If your claim is successful, our costs will be covered by a pre-agreed, capped percentage of your compensation—ensuring the majority of your settlement remains yours.
This straightforward, risk-free approach ensures everyone has access to expert legal representation, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we work to secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Ison Harrison Solicitors?
Ison Harrison Solicitors is a trusted name in medical negligence claims, with years of experience helping clients secure the compensation they deserve. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Specialist Expertise: Our team has a proven track record in handling cosmetic surgery claims.
- Compassionate Approach: We understand the personal impact of negligence and are dedicated to supporting you throughout the process.
- Comprehensive Support: From gathering evidence to negotiating settlements, we manage every aspect of your claim.
- Lexcel Accreditation: Our commitment to excellence is recognised by the Law Society’s Lexcel accreditation.
Call Our Experts Today
If you or someone you know has suffered due to negligent breast augmentation surgery, contact Ison Harrison Solicitors today. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and provide expert advice on your next steps. Let us help you achieve the justice and compensation you deserve, so you can move forward with confidence. Please call 0113 284 5000 or email pi@isonharrison.co.uk to discuss your case.
