More people are choosing to have cosmetic surgery abroad, and liposuction is one of the most common procedures. However, without the clear and enforced standards that apply in the UK, the chances of liposuction gone wrong can be higher. This blog looks at what can happen if your surgeon fails to take appropriate precautions and the steps you can take if things do not go as planned.
Why people go abroad for liposuction
Lower prices are one of the biggest draws, with procedures in some countries costing far less than in the UK. Add to that the appeal of warmer climates, all-inclusive package deals that combine surgery with accommodation and aftercare, and the chance to recover away from work and everyday responsibilities, and it’s easy to see why many choose to travel for treatment.
Liposuction – what could go wrong?
If proper precautions are not taken during the procedure, issues that could have been avoided may arise. These can include:
- Asymmetry or uneven contours: noticeable differences in shape between treated areas once swelling has gone down.
- Indentations or ridges: sometimes linked to overly aggressive fat removal.
- Skin discolouration or persistent numbness: which may indicate nerve irritation or damage.
- Infection or slow-healing wounds: particularly if aftercare was not followed closely or problems were overlooked during follow-up.
- Visible deformities: such as irregular shaping that may result from poor surgical technique.
What precautions should surgeons ideally take?Â
In the UK, surgeons have a legal duty to take steps that safeguard your wellbeing and support the best possible outcome from your procedure. This includes thorough pre-operative assessments, clear communication about potential risks and adherence to recognised medical standards during surgery and aftercare. Standards can vary in other countries, so researching your surgeon’s qualifications, the clinic’s safety protocols and the availability of follow-up care can help reduce the likelihood of complications.
What can you do if your surgery went wrong?Â
From a legal perspective, your options may be limited if the laws in the country where you had your surgery do not offer clear routes to compensation. Your priority should be to seek medical attention straight away, following your surgeon’s advice if you are still abroad. Once back in the UK, consider getting medical advice or a second opinion to assess your condition and understand the next steps for your recovery.
Can you take action if you had negligent liposuction in the UK?
Yes – you can pursue compensation if your liposuction surgery in the UK went wrong because your surgeon failed to meet their professional duties to prevent avoidable issues. A specialist solicitor can review what happened, gather the necessary evidence and advise you on the strength of your case.
What does a compensation claim cover?
A compensation claim can address the financial impact of any further medical treatment or corrective procedures you have needed, as well as related expenses such as medication or specialist care. It can also account for the physical pain you have endured and the psychological distress linked to the results of your surgery, which may affect your confidence, daily life and overall wellbeing.
How long do you have to make a claim?
You usually have three years from the date of your surgery, or from the date you became aware that something had gone wrong, to begin a claim. This period is known as the limitation period, and once it expires, you may lose the legal right to pursue compensation. For this reason, it is advisable to seek professional advice as soon as possible, so your solicitor has enough time to gather evidence, assess your case, and submit your claim within the required timeframe.
If you’re considering plastic surgery abroad, it may be worth rethinking whether the risks outweigh the potential benefits.
