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Poor Regulation of Expanding Industry Gives Rise to an Increasing Number of Compensation Claims

Cosmetic Surgery Statistics

Over recent years, the cosmetic surgery industry has enjoyed a period of rapid growth. In the last year the number of cosmetic surgery operations performed has increased by a third, with over 22,000 carried out in 2005 alone.

Primarily these operations are performed on a private basis and it is estimated that approximately £225 million was spent on cosmetic procedures. A large majority of people opting to have cosmetic surgery are women, however the number of men choosing to undergo procedures is rising.

Many surgeries are carried out correctly and safely by qualified and careful surgeons with competent, experienced after care staff. This is not always the case however and an increasing number of people are suffering personal injuries as a result of negligence.

Regulation and Control

There are now measures being put into place to regulate the industry, such as the General Medical Council (GMC) register. Not all practices are registered however, and a recent report by the Chief Medical Officer found that those practicing only cosmetic surgery were the least likely to do so.

Private clinics and hospitals should also be registered with the Health Care Commission (HCC), whose inspectors carry out annual inspections.

Another major concern is that less invasive, but nonetheless risky procedures such as laser treatment and injections are not as tightly controlled as invasive surgical procedures. There is no requirement for practitioners of these treatments to register, meaning that there will inevitably be sub-standard clinics in operation.

Clinical Negligence

Surgical errors and insufficient or improper after care can leave cosmetic surgery patients with horrific scarring, infection and bleeding, not to mention psychological trauma and a lack of self confidence.

It has recently been reported that up to 20% of private healthcare complaints are in relation to cosmetic surgery. Many compensation claims have also been settled for the victims of negligent treatment, with over a million pounds awarded as damages.

The Legal Line lawyers, Thompsons Solicitors, are specialists in all areas of claiming compensation for injuries caused by clinical/medical negligence.  Our specialist clinical negligence team can provide sympathetic advice and support to anyone affected by negligent medical treatment. This includes the option to be referred to a male/female solicitor upon request for sensitive issues. If you feel that you may be entitled to claim compensation, contact us for claim advice .

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