According to the latest annual audit by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), more than 31,000 cosmetic procedures were carried out in the UK in 2022. These figures included 3,413 tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) and 3,002 liposuction procedures.
Demand for cosmetic surgery continues to rise sharply. In 2022 alone, abdominoplasty procedures increased by 129% compared to 2021, while liposuction procedures rose by 135%.
If you are considering liposuction or a tummy tuck in the coming months, it is vital that you are fully informed. You should understand the risks involved, know how to choose a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon, and ensure that high-quality aftercare is available.
In this article, we explain what can go wrong with liposuction and tummy tuck procedures, the key questions you should ask your surgeon, and when you may be entitled to bring a cosmetic surgery negligence claim.
It is normal to experience some side effects following liposuction or a tummy tuck. These may include:
These are expected side effects, not complications.
However, complications caused by medical negligence are vey different and may entitle you to bring a claim.
You may have grounds for a cosmetic surgery negligence claim if you experience:
Normal side effects should gradually improve during recovery. If your symptoms worsen or persist beyond the expected recovery period (usually 3-6 weeks), this may indicate negligent treatment.
Although liposuction and tummy tucks are common procedures, they are still major surgical operations. You should never feel rushed into making a decision.
We recommend arranging a face-to-face consultations with at least three cosmetic surgeons before proceeding. This allows you to compare experience, approach, and aftercare standards.
You should always meet the surgeon who will perform your operation. Speaking to them directly allows you to:
Do not assume a surgeon is properly qualified. Always check that they:
You should also confirm that the anaesthetist involved in your care is GMC-registered.
Your surgeon should confirm whether the procedure is safe and appropriate based on:
They should review your medical records and carry out appropriate checks before recommending surgery.
A reputable cosmetic surgeon should be open about:
You should also ask:
Make sure you understand:
High-quality aftercare is just as important as the surgery itself.
To bring a cosmetic surgery negligence claim, all three of the following must apply:
All healthcare professionals owe patients a legal duty of care. This includes surgeons, nurses, and any medical professional responsible for your treatment.
You must show that the care provided fell below the standard expected of a reasonably competent cosmetic surgeon.
It must be proven that the negligence directly caused your injury or worsened your outcome.
Under the Limitation Act 1980, you usually have three years from:
In some cases, the Court may allow claims outside this time limit, so it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
At NJS Law, we have decades of combined experience representing clients in liposuction and tummy tuck negligence claims. We are compassionate, thorough, and committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.
To assess your claim, we may need:
If you believe you have suffered harm following liposuction or a tummy tuck, our team is here to help.
Call NJS Law on 01625 667166 to discuss your cosmetic surgery negligence claim in confidence.
For fast, friendly affordable legal advice. Contact a member of our team today.
