Here’s the full picture behind this week’s 60-second explainer, including what separates a disappointing result from genuine negligence, and how a case is typically evidenced.
The Short Answer
Not necessarily. A cosmetic procedure not turning out the way you imagined doesn’t automatically mean you were the victim of negligence. To be classed as negligence, your clinician must have breached their duty of care or provided substandard care; simply not achieving the outcome you wanted isn’t enough on its own. Evidence such as treatment notes, photos, witness statements, and any text or email exchanges with the provider can help support a claim.
Does an Unwanted Result Mean Negligence?
It’s a common misconception that any disappointing cosmetic outcome automatically points to negligence. In reality, the law looks at the standard of care provided, not simply whether you’re happy with how things turned out.
“Not necessarily. To be classed as negligence, your clinician must have breached your duty of care or provided substandard care, not having the outcome you desired isn’t enough on its own.”From the video, 0:09
You can read more about cosmetic negligence on our cosmetic negligence claims service page.
What Actually Needs to Be Shown
For a cosmetic negligence claim to succeed, the focus is on whether the clinician failed to meet the standard of care expected of them, rather than on the aesthetic outcome alone. This might include, for example, a failure to properly advise on risks, or a procedure carried out to a substandard level.
What Evidence Can Help Your Case?
Building a cosmetic negligence claim usually draws on a combination of sources.
- Treatment notes from the provider
- Photos, both before and after the procedure
- Witness statements
- Text or email exchanges with the provider
“When making a cosmetic negligence claim, in addition to the treatment notes themselves, evidence such as photos, witness statements, and any text or email exchanges you’ve had with the provider can help to make the case.” From the video, 0:20
For a broader look at the claims process, see our How Medical Negligence Claims Work guide.
Think Something Went Wrong With Your Cosmetic Procedure?
Our team can help you understand whether your experience may amount to negligence, no cost, no obligation.
Think You May Have a Claim?
Get in touch to find out more about claiming against a private healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. Negligence requires a breach of duty of care or substandard treatment, not simply an outcome you didn’t want.
You’d generally need to show that your clinician breached their duty of care or provided substandard care.
Treatment notes, photos, witness statements, and any text or email exchanges with the provider can all help support a claim.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Speak to our team today and find out exactly where you stand.
Conclusion
An unsatisfactory cosmetic result isn’t the same thing as negligence, but where the standard of care itself fell short, a claim may be possible. Gathering the right evidence early gives the clearest picture of where you stand.