Claims involving cosmetic surgery

Michael is a direct access barrister who has been dealing with cosmetic surgery claims for over 15 years.

Guidance for doctors who offer cosmetic interventions, published by the General Medical Council in 2016 describes cosmetic interventions as ‘…any intervention, procedure or treatment carried out with the primary objective of changing an aspect of a patient’s physical appearance. This includes surgical and non-surgical procedures, both invasive and non-invasive’.

In recent years there has been an explosion of cosmetic surgery procedures; this growth has been partly contributed to by online discounts. With this increase in procedures comes the potential for things to go wrong.

Claims involving elective cosmetic surgery can often be quite challenging or even harrowing. The causes of loss can be complex and prognosis can be tricky. It may take skilled analysis and application to extract an early admission of liability from any practitioner responsible. Showing that consent was inadequate may well be the easy part. The more difficult aspect is showing how informed consent would have altered any claimant’s behaviour.

Michael in many cases has been able to secure such an admission on behalf of his clients and therefore secure an early settlement. Michael works mainly on informed consent claims which were alleged to have been injured during a subsequent procedure.

In addition the valuation of a claim involving informed consent can run into millions of pounds and it is important to use someone who has experienced these heads of claim already.

Recent Testimonials

“Michael Shaw dealt with our case in the most professional manner. He was caring and courteous towards the Defendant who was a victim of domestic violence whilst displaying the utmost professionalism and giving her the advice and confidence to give evidence in the best way possible. His cross-examination technique, expertise and his confidence is what won the case in the end. Highly recommended! Thanks again Michael. Great result”

“I was the victim of negligence which left me with life, changing conditions, thank God I can still walk. I was introduced to Michael Shaw through a mutual friend. We made contact, and he took my case on. What an outstanding service, I was provided with. He was always there at the end of the phone and always returned my emails through some of the toughest times of my life. Even when he was on holiday with his family, which is outstanding service. He understood what I was going through, mentally and physically I can’t thank you enough for the service you provided me; and now the case has come to a resolution I can start to rebuild my life. I would always recommend him to friends and family”.

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