When Breast Surgery Goes Wrong: What Women Need to Know
Breast surgery is a branch of cosmetic procedures that alter the breasts in some way. This might include breast augmentation to increase their size with implants, breast reduction to reduce their size, breast lift to increase their perkiness or a combination of the above.
This guide will explain how women can understand what is part of the normal healing process vs what are the signs of complications. Also, we will discuss how solicitors can help you with the breast surgery compensation claims process.
What is the expected healing process?
Every patient’s recovery will look slightly different, depending on factors such as the type of breast surgery, your general health, age and how well aftercare instructions are followed. Your surgeon has a duty to explain the full healing process before the procedure, including the likely recovery timeline, how your body may respond, and what you should expect in terms of care and follow-up.
During recovery, you may experience:
- Scarring: This is a common part of healing, but you should be told in advance where scars will be placed, how visible they may be and what to expect in terms of long-term appearance.
- Inflammation, swelling and bruising: These are normal responses after surgery and should gradually subside in the weeks that follow.
- Infection at incision sites: While infection is a possible complication, your surgeon must explain how to reduce the risk, how to recognise early signs and what action to take. A failure to provide clear aftercare advice or respond to signs of infection could be considered negligent.
- Pain and discomfort: Some level of soreness is expected, but your surgeon should advise on how to manage it and when to seek further support if it worsens or persists.
If you believe your surgeon did not prepare you adequately for the healing process or failed to respond to complications properly, this could be a breach of their duty of care.
What are a surgeon’s obligations?
Your surgeon has a duty of care to you before, during and after your breast surgery. This includes clearly explaining the risks, possible outcomes and any alternative procedures before the operation takes place. They must also assess whether you are a suitable candidate for surgery.
During the procedure, they are expected to follow professional standards, including using the correct techniques and maintaining proper hygiene.
After surgery, your surgeon must monitor your healing, identify any signs of complications and provide appropriate aftercare or further treatment if needed. If these obligations are not met, and you suffer as a result, it may be classed as negligence.
What are the signs of complications?
Although some discomfort is expected during recovery, certain symptoms may suggest something has gone wrong. These include:
- Increasing or excessive pain: While some pain is normal after surgery, worsening pain rather than a gradual improvement may indicate a problem.
- Bleeding: Persistent or excessive bleeding should not be ignored and may point to improper wound healing or surgical technique.
- Implant shifting across the midline (symmastia): This can occur if the implant pocket is incorrectly created, causing the implants to move too close together.
- Double bubble: This happens when the implant drops below the natural crease of the breast, creating a second fold. It may suggest improper placement or surgical error.
- Waterfall deformity: When breast tissue descends below the implant, creating a ‘Snoopy nose’ effect, this may point to poor surgical planning or technique.
If you notice any of the above, you should contact your surgeon immediately. They are responsible for managing complications properly. If they fail to act or do not provide suitable treatment, this may be classed as negligence.
What action can you take if you experience complications?
- If you believe something has gone wrong following your breast surgery, you may choose to speak to your original surgeon or seek a second opinion from another professional certified with the General Medical Council and experienced in breast surgery.
- It’s helpful to begin collecting evidence that may support your case. This could include medical records, copies of communication with your surgeon, receipts for any additional treatment, consultation notes and proof of any financial losses such as time off work.
- Contact a surgeon specialising in breast surgery negligence claims. They can help you pursue a claim and receive the most optimal compensation for your circumstances.
What does compensation cover?
Compensation is intended to help you recover losses and account for the emotional and physical impact caused by negligent breast surgery. It can provide financial support for what you’ve already gone through and what you may face in the future.
This might include:
- Loss of wages or future earnings if your ability to work has been affected.
- Medical expenses, such as corrective surgery or prescription costs.
- Travel costs for getting to and from appointments.
- Counselling or psychological support to help you deal with the emotional effects.
If you’ve suffered because of your surgeon’s negligence, you’re not alone. By following these steps, you can find the help that is available to you.
