When a patient decides to undergo a necessary medical procedure or an elective cosmetic procedure, they are usually informed about the known risks, and they are treated by a highly trained surgeon and a qualified medical team.

While most cosmetic surgeries are successful, not all surgeries go as planned, and in some cases an anesthesia error or a surgical error results in disfigurement, a permanent injury, or death.

The general risks involved in cosmetic procedures, include:

• Improperly performed surgery
• Postoperative complications (bleeding or infection)
• Scarring or deformity
• Anesthesia errors
• Omissions in the plan of treatment
• Lack of informed consent
• Permanent nerve damage
• Death as a result of severe complications
• Necrosis (insufficient oxygen supply causing tissue death)
• Hematoma or blood clotting

Risks Involved in Plastic Surgery

From liposuction to rhinoplasty, to male breast reduction surgery, breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, tummy tucks and facelifts, surgical errors can lead to permanent disfigurement and lifelong complications.

To illustrate: with rhinoplasty (a nose job), the risks include recurrent nosebleeds and difficulty breathing. With eyelid surgery, the patient is at risk of retinal detachment and ectropian (a drooping effect that causes the lower lid to invert), both of which require corrective surgery.

Liability of the Plastic Surgeon

As with any other healthcare professional, plastic surgeons must exercise the highest duty of care and competency when patients are under their care. If a plastic surgeon's medical negligence causes a patient's injuries, then it gives rise to a medical malpractice lawsuit.

Plastic surgery errors can lead to lifelong complications. The victim may be required to undergo multiple corrective surgeries, and they can experience disfigurement, lost income, and psychological issues.

If you are the victim of plastic surgery malpractice, contact a medical malpractice who can explain your rights and your state's statute of limitations to file a claim.