Choosing to undergo breast surgery is a significant decision. Whether for cosmetic or reconstructive reasons, many people choose the procedure to improve their confidence, feel more comfortable in their body or restore their appearance following illness or injury.
When breast surgery does not go as expected, the physical and emotional impact can be considerable. While not every complication is the result of negligence, avoidable errors caused by a surgical team failing to provide an acceptable standard of care can have life-changing consequences, leaving people to cope with additional treatment, prolonged recovery and lasting psychological effects.
This guide explains some of the signs that something may have gone wrong after breast surgery, what steps you should take if you have concerns, and how compensation may help if negligent treatment has caused you harm.
Signs that something may have gone wrong
Not every complication following breast surgery is the result of negligence. All surgical procedures carry recognised risks, and some complications can occur even when treatment has been provided to an acceptable standard.
Potential signs include:
- Unexpected or worsening pain
- Infection symptoms
- Poor wound healing
- Asymmetry or an unexpected cosmetic outcome
- Nerve damage or loss of sensation
- Implant-related complications
- Excessive or avoidable scarring
- Emotional distress linked to the outcome of the procedure
If you experience any of these complications after breast surgery, notify your surgeon or clinic as soon as possible and seek medical attention. Prompt medical advice can help protect your health, properly address any issues and create a clear record of what has happened.
What a surgeon is obligated to do during breast surgery
Breast surgeons owe every patient a duty of care. This means they must provide treatment that meets the standard expected of a reasonably competent medical professional in their field.
A surgeon should:
- Assess whether breast surgery is suitable based on your health, medical history and treatment goals.
- Explain the recognised risks, possible complications and expected results.
- Discuss suitable alternatives, where available.
- Obtain informed consent before carrying out surgery.
- Plan the procedure carefully and use appropriate surgical techniques.
- Perform the surgery to a reasonable professional standard.
- Take reasonable steps to prevent avoidable complications.
- Provide suitable aftercare, including recovery advice and follow-up appointments.
- Respond appropriately if complications or concerns arise after surgery.
What to do if you feel something has gone wrong
If you feel something is not right after breast surgery, your health should come first. Taking prompt action can also help create a clear record of what has happened.
You should:
- Seek medical advice quickly from your surgeon, clinic, GP or another appropriate healthcare professional.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
- Keep a written record of your symptoms, concerns and recovery.
- Note when symptoms started and whether they have changed over time.
- Take dated photographs of visible issues, such as swelling, scarring, asymmetry or wound problems.
- Keep copies of emails, letters, text messages and other communications with the clinic or surgeon.
- Request your medical records, including consultation notes, consent forms and operation records.
- Avoid direct arguments with the clinic or surgeon and keep communication factual.
- Contact a specialist in plastic surgery claims, such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors, to discuss whether you may be eligible to claim compensation.
It’s important to note, if you wish to pursue a compensation claim, you usually have three years from the date of surgery or date of reasonable knowledge that your injury may have been linked to negligent treatment.
How to strengthen a potential compensation claim
If you are considering a breast surgery compensation claim, evidence can help show what happened, how you were affected and what support or treatment you may need.
Useful evidence may include:
- Medical records from the clinic, hospital, GP or any other healthcare provider.
- Before-and-after photographs.
- Photographs showing complications as they develop or improve.
- Appointment letters and consultation notes.
- Consent forms and treatment plans.
- Emails, letters, messages or written responses from the clinic or surgeon.
- Receipts for medical appointments, prescriptions, corrective treatment or travel expenses.
- Wage slips or employment records if your ability to work has been affected.
- A symptom diary explaining pain, discomfort, emotional impact and daily limitations.
- Independent medical evidence assessing your injuries, recovery and future needs.
A specialist cosmetic surgery solicitor can help identify what evidence is most useful and support you in gathering the right documents.
What compensation can cover
Compensation is intended to reflect the impact negligent treatment has had on your life. The amount available will depend on your individual circumstances, the evidence and the effect the injury has had on your recovery, work and day-to-day wellbeing.
Compensation may cover:
- Pain and physical injury.
- Emotional distress linked to the outcome of the procedure.
- Corrective or reconstructive treatment.
- Loss of earnings if you have needed time away from work.
- Reduced future earnings if your ability to work has been affected long term.
- Care and support provided by relatives, friends or professional carers.
- Travel expenses for medical appointments.
- Prescription, treatment or rehabilitation costs.
- The long-term impact on your confidence, daily routine and quality of life.
Complications after breast surgery should always be taken seriously. If you are concerned about your recovery or the outcome of your procedure, notify your surgeon or clinic and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Getting advice early can help protect your health, ensure your concerns are properly assessed and support any next steps you may wish to take. If you believe your complications may have been caused by substandard care, specialist cosmetic surgery solicitors can help you understand your rights and whether you may be eligible to claim compensation.
