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BOTCHED! What can I do? Who can I sue?

Medical Negligence

Co-written by: Mai O’Regan (Paralegal)

Plastic and cosmetic surgery is becoming more and more popular. There are many reasons why people undergo these surgeries, some are, because of the result of an injury or to alter their appearances for cosmetic purposes. This is the reason why it can be a significant shock when cosmetic surgery goes wrong. Patients can experience severe pain and permanent damage. This damage can take a toll both physically and/or mentally.

A patient who has suffered an injury, loss or damage as a result of negligent plastic or cosmetic surgery may be entitled to claim for damages. We understand this can be difficult because it is hard to quantify how much a botched nose, or a loss of feeling in a limb is worth.

In order to make a claim, you must prove that the medical treatment you received was negligent and that the surgeon has breached their duty of care. A medical negligence claim can be against the surgeon, doctor, hospital or other health care practitioners who have been negligent in their procedures with their patients. A critical element, especially in plastic and cosmetic surgy cases is whether your doctor has adequately informed you of the risks of the operation.

What can you claim?

You may be able to claim:

  • Medical costs
  • Loss of income
  • Pain and Suffering incurred
  • Family compensation for wrongful death

Examples of unsuccessful plastic or cosmetic procedures include:

  • Mental health effects from your treatment
  • Rashes and skin pigmentation
  • Excessive scar and Disfiguration as a result of the treatment
  • Infection leading to other health problems
  • Ongoing pain

Botched cosmetic or plastic surgery can leave a lasting effect on your self-esteem and health and we understand the position you have been put in. Coutts has an experienced team in medical negligence and will assist you through the process of a claim.


ABOUT KARENA NICHOLLS:

Karena Nicholls

Karena is a Partner at Coutts and is the Head of our Injury Compensation (with extensive knowledge in personal injury) and Employment Law teams. She is passionate and dedicated to helping her clients understand their rights and obligations and advising them on the best course of action to achieve their desired outcomes. It is her practical and client-orientated approach which has attributed to her authentic reputation positioning her as a highly regarded compensation and employment lawyer.


For further information please don’t hesitate to contact:

Karena Nicholls
Partner
karena@couttslegal.com.au
1300 268 887

Contact our coutts today.

This blog is merely general and non specific information on the subject matter and is not and should not be considered or relied on as legal advice. Coutts is not responsible for any cost, expense, loss or liability whatsoever in relation to this blog, including all or any reliance on this blog or use or application of this blog by you.

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