What could go wrong with liposuction treatment?

As with any surgical procedure, liposuction comes with its risks. Below, we have listed the things that could go wrong when undergoing liposuction treatment:

• Infection: although rare, an infection can develop after liposuction surgery, and in some severe cases, it may become life-threatening.
• Seroma: this is a condition in which serous fluid accumulates in a pocket under the skin, which may need to be drained.
• Bleeding and haematoma: excessive bleeding can occur during or after the surgery. A haematoma is a collection of blood outside of the blood vessels, which may need to be drained if large.
• Scarring: scar tissue from liposuction is usually small, and the procedure is strategically placed to be less visible, but scars can still occur.
• Numbness: temporary or permanent changes in sensation can occur in the area where liposuction was performed.
• Damage to structures under the skin: rarely, a cannula (a thin tube used to remove the fat) may damage an internal organ during the procedure.
• Embolism: this is a serious condition where loosened fat breaks away and gets trapped in a blood vessel and gathers in the lungs or travels to the brain.
• Kidney and heart problems: the changes in fluid levels while the body is injected with fluids and the suctioning out can cause kidney and heart problems.
• Reactions to anaesthesia: as with any procedure where anaesthesia is given, there is a risk of an adverse reaction.

What are the signs my liposuction surgery has gone wrong?

Patients may not be able to fully see the results of liposuction until the initial inflammation has subsided, which can take several months in some cases. However, the following can indicate that liposuction negligence has occurred:

• Poor body shape or contour deformity
• A failure to warn you about potential nerve damage or numbness
• Bumpy and asymmetrical skin where the fat has been removed
• Inappropriate scarring

If you are considering undergoing liposuction, check out our guides on what to expect and prepare for:

• Liposuction: what to expect from your procedure
• Liposuction: a recovery guide

Why choose us for your liposuction compensation claim?

If you have suffered as a result of liposuction negligence, Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors is well placed to secure compensation on your behalf that will help you to get your life back on track. We have achieved a success rate of 95% in the negligence cosmetic surgery procedure cases that we have handled after obtaining medical evidence, including for liposuction procedures. To date, we have successfully recovered more than £10 million in compensation for our clients.

Led by respected solicitor Michael Saul, our specialist team of solicitors is here to help you, and we will work tirelessly to ensure you have the tools you need to rebuild your life following a liposuction gone wrong.

Whether you need to pursue a case against the negligent surgeon who performed your operation or the clinic that provided unsafe or unclean instruments, we will use our expertise to assess your case on an individual basis to get you the results you need.

How long will the liposuction claims process take?

The liposuction compensation claims process can vary in length due to the unique circumstances of each patient. However, you can rest assured that your solicitor will be on hand every step of the way to explain each stage to you, so you will know exactly what you can expect and can make informed decisions.

By speaking to our team of expert solicitors, you will gain a better idea of time your case could take, helping you to consider next steps.

For more information on what to expect when making a liposuction compensation claim with Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors, click the button below.

Is there a time limit for making a liposuction negligence claim?

In the UK, the general rule for medical negligence cases is that you have three years from the date of the negligence or from when you first realised that you suffered a significant injury due to negligence.

This time limit is known as the 'limitation period'. For example, if you underwent a liposuction procedure on the 1st of July 2023 and immediately experienced complications that suggested negligence, you would typically have until the 1st of July 2026 to commence legal proceedings.

However, if you only became aware of the negligence at a later date - for instance, if complications became evident a year after the procedure - the three-year limitation period might start from that date instead.

There are some exceptions to the three-year rule. For individuals who lack mental capacity, there is no time limit to making a claim. In the rare case a child is involved, the three-year limit does not begin until their 18th birthday, meaning they have until they turn 21 to make a claim.

It is important to get legal advice as soon as you suspect you may have a claim for negligence. The process of preparing a case can be time-consuming as it often involves gathering medical records, obtaining expert medical opinions, and detailed legal preparation. Starting the process early gives the best chance of making sure your claim is filed within the limitation period.

What will my liposuction compensation cover?

If your liposuction claim is successful, the compensation you receive will help you get your life back on track following this stressful incident. Usually, compensation will cover:

• The cost of any care you have required as a result of your injury
• Medical fees
• Travel costs to and from medical appointments
• Physical and emotional damage caused by the incident
• Long-term suffering
• Loss of quality of life
• The pain and suffering caused
• Liposuction revision surgery

How can we help with your liposuction claim?

Liposuction surgeons and clinics have a responsibility to their patients to provide a service that meets a certain standard. If you feel this has not happened and you have suffered as a result, you are entitled to claim for compensation.

Whatever your circumstances, we are ready to help you seek justice and claim the compensation you deserve. Not only can the appropriate financial compensation go towards reconstructive surgery and aid your physical and mental recovery, but the claim can also play a role in stopping the offending surgeon or clinic from making the same mistake with other patients in the future.