Cosmetic Surgery Claims

Cosmetic surgery has become increasingly common across Ireland, with procedures ranging from breast augmentation to rhinoplasty and Botox treatments. Whether undertaken for aesthetic reasons or to address physical concerns, these procedures often carry significant emotional and physical stakes for patients. However, when the standard of care falls short, the results can range from physical harm to emotional distress, and financial burdens.

At Good & Murray Smith LLP, we understand how deeply cosmetic surgery negligence can affect your life. With over a century of legal expertise, our team is dedicated to helping clients hold negligent providers accountable. When you entrust us with your case, we focus on delivering results that provide justice, closure, and compensation for the harm you’ve endured.

What Constitutes Cosmetic Surgery Negligence?

Cosmetic surgery negligence occurs when a medical professional’s actions fall below the accepted standard of care, resulting in harm. While no procedure is without risk, patients have the right to expect that their care is delivered with competence, caution, and adherence to best practices.

Common Examples of Negligence in Cosmetic Procedures

• Poor results or disfigurement: Procedures that fail to deliver the promised results or leave a patient visibly scarred.
• Nerve damage: Permanent loss of sensation or movement due to errors during surgery.
• Use of defective products: Faulty implants or fillers causing complications.
• Inadequate aftercare: Failure to provide necessary follow-up care, leading to infection or delayed healing.
• Surgical errors: Mistakes made during procedures, such as incorrect incisions or incomplete surgeries.
• Lack of informed consent: Failing to explain the risks, benefits, and alternatives before the procedure.

Negligence is not limited to surgical procedures; non-invasive treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, and laser therapy can also result in claims when performed incompetently.

When Can You Make a Claim?

You may be eligible to make a claim if:

• The care you received was below the standard expected of a competent professional.
• This negligence directly caused injury, harm, or financial loss.

Situations That May Lead to a Claim:

• Being misled about the qualifications or experience of the practitioner.
• Unforeseen complications due to inadequate pre-procedure assessments.
• Permanent scarring, disfigurement, or unsatisfactory results from the procedure.
• Incorrect or delayed diagnosis of complications.

If you believe you have been let down during your cosmetic surgery journey, it’s important to act promptly to secure the evidence needed for your claim.

Why Choose Good & Murray Smith LLP?

Compassionate and Discreet Approach

We recognise the personal nature of these claims and treat every client with the utmost respect, sensitivity, and confidentiality. Your case is handled with care and professionalism from start to finish.

Proven Track Record

We have secured substantial settlements for clients impacted by cosmetic surgery negligence. Our commitment to achieving justice ensures that no detail is overlooked in pursuing the best possible outcome for you.

Dedicated to Your Recovery

Beyond legal advice, we’re here to help you reclaim control over your life. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your claim, we’ll stand by you every step of the way.

What Happens Next?

If you’ve suffered due to cosmetic surgery negligence, here’s how we can help:

Initial Consultation

Contact us for a confidential discussion about your experience. We’ll listen carefully to your story and provide an honest assessment of your case.

Gathering Evidence

We’ll obtain your medical records and consult independent experts to assess whether your treatment fell below the expected standard of care.

Filing a Claim

Once negligence is established, we’ll draft a detailed claim, setting out the impact on your physical health, emotional wellbeing, and financial stability.

Seeking Resolution

Whether through negotiation or, if necessary, court proceedings, we’ll work tirelessly to secure fair compensation for you.

Compensation for Cosmetic Surgery Negligence

Compensation in cosmetic surgery claims typically includes two categories:

General Damages

These address the non-financial consequences of negligence, such as pain, suffering, emotional distress, and the impact on your quality of life. For example, the trauma of living with visible scars or deformities may form a significant part of your claim.

Special Damages

These cover financial losses directly related to the negligence, including:

• Costs of corrective surgery or ongoing medical treatment.
• Loss of earnings due to time off work or an inability to return to work.
• Travel expenses for medical appointments.
• Future care costs or rehabilitation needs.

While general damages are assessed based on the severity and long-term impact of your injuries, special damages require detailed documentation to demonstrate actual financial losses.

We meticulously prepare claims to ensure you receive full compensation for all aspects of your suffering and loss.

What Are the Time Limits for Bringing a Cosmetic Surgery Claim?

In Ireland, the law imposes strict time limits for pursuing cosmetic surgery negligence claims. Generally, you must bring your claim within two years less a day from either:

• The date of the procedure that caused harm, or
• The date you became aware that negligence may have occurred (known as the “date of knowledge”).

For claims involving children, the two-year period begins on their 18th birthday, giving them until they turn 20 to bring a claim.

It is crucial to act promptly, as gathering medical records, expert opinions, and evidence takes time. Delays could jeopardise your ability to seek justice. At Good & Murray Smith LLP, we ensure that your claim is pursued efficiently and within the necessary timeframes.