According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 18.1 million cosmetic procedures were completed in 2019, along with another 5.9 million reconstructive procedures. Some surgeries help people gain confidence in their appearance, while others are necessary for recovery after trauma. Regardless of the body part or motivation, every patient should be able to trust the doctor performing surgery.

Unfortunately, errors sometimes occur during cosmetic procedures, and the results can jeopardize a person’s health and well-being. If you or a loved one has suffered harm from a botched cosmetic surgery, it is imperative that you speak with a Roanoke cosmetic surgery malpractice lawyer who can explain your legal options.

Contact our talented medical malpractice attorneys today.

Top Cosmetic Surgeries and Reconstructive Surgeries

Cosmetic and reconstructive procedures cover a wide range of surgeries, from those meant to enhance appearance to those that restore function after an accident or medical condition. Understanding which types of surgeries are most common can help patients recognize where complications frequently occur.

Top Cosmetic Surgeries and Reconstructive Surgeries

  • Breast Augmentation

  • Liposuction

  • Eyelid surgery

  • Nose reshaping

  • Facelift

  • Tumor removal

  • Laceration repair

  • Maxillofacial surgery

  • Scar revision

  • Hand surgery

Each of these surgeries carries its own risks, whether performed for cosmetic enhancement or medical necessity. Even when patients carefully select their surgeons, mistakes or negligence can still lead to devastating outcomes. When that happens, it may be time to consult with a Roanoke cosmetic surgery malpractice lawyer who understands how to investigate errors and pursue compensation on your behalf.

Common Cosmetic Surgery Complications

  • Hematoma or Seroma—Hematomas are pockets of blood that pool outside of the blood vessels. Seromas are also a pocket of fluid, but the fluid is a clear bodily fluid that can lead to infection. According to the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, hematomas are most likely to occur in surgeries involving the breast, with an incidence rate of one percent. This includes breast augmentation, reduction, revision breast implant procedures, mastopexy, and male breast surgery.
  • Infection—Anytime the incisions are made into a person’s skin, there is a risk of infection because the skin acts as a barrier to keep us healthy from unwanted bacteria. Infections can lead to scarring or other complications with a cosmetic surgery procedure.
  • Nerve Damage—When surgical cuts are being made, it is possible to damage nearby nerves. Temporary nerve damage can take upwards of a year to heal, but some patients get permanent damage and never experience the same sensations or movement in that area of the body again.
  • Organ Damage—When a surgical probe comes in contact with an organ, it can perforate or puncture the organ. At best, this can require further surgeries, and at worst, it can be fatal for the patient.
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Pulmonary Embolism (PE)—Especially when a patient is getting multiple procedures done at once, there is a risk of creating a blood clot that forms in a deep vein. This is called DVT. If the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, it becomes a PE, which could be fatal.

A Roanoke Cosmetic Surgery Malpractice Attorney Is Here to Help You

Many patients are excited when they go in for cosmetic surgery, hoping to enhance or repair a part of their body to improve self-image and confidence. Unfortunately, not all cosmetic surgeries go smoothly, and some patients are left with serious injuries. If you believe you have suffered at the hands of a negligent or careless cosmetic surgeon, it is time to speak with a skilled Roanoke cosmetic surgery malpractice lawyer. At MichieHamlett, our attorneys can answer your questions and guide you through the steps toward seeking compensation. For dedicated legal support, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.