If you’ve undergone face lift surgery and are unhappy with the result or think your medical professional might be responsible for complications, you may be able to secure compensation for your loss. Our experienced clinical negligence team know just how to get to the bottom of your claim and identify any failings by your medical professional. Contact our clinical negligence team for a free consultation as soon as possible to secure the best chance of success: 0845 144 1441.
A face lift or ‘rhytidectomy’ is a cosmetic surgery designed to counter the visible effects of aging on the face by tightening the skin. This reduces visible wrinkles, granting a more youthful appearance. Almost 5000 people chose to have a face lift during 2010, making it the sixth most popular cosmetic surgery.
The surgery involves making a cut in front of the ears which then moves over the top of the ear and traces the hairline to the back of the neck. The skin is then prised away from the deeper tissues. Some skin is removed and deeper tissues may be tightened before the cut is sealed.
Face lifts have been practiced since the beginning of the 20th century and are generally very consistent in their results when performed to a proper professional standard. However, complications or undesirable results can occur if a surgeon fails to maintain the high professional standards expected of them.
As with any surgery, infection and bleeding beneath the skin remain clear risks. If left untreated these complications can prove extremely serious. Other risks unique to face lifts include:
- Nerve damage: If the surgeon fails to take adequate care he may damage the nerves which control the muscles in the face. This could cause twitching, loss of control or disfigurement. Numbness may also be experienced.
- Scarring: Most patients find the scarring caused by face lifts is very minor. However, the responsible medical professional must inform their patient if this is a greater risk for them. For example, smokers are more likely to experience scarring.
- Symmetry: Failure to apply the proper level of professional skill in the operation may result in a lack of symmetry. Our eyes are capable of perceiving even the slightest differences in a person’s face, which is how we read expressions and tell people apart. It also means we can detect even minor surgical changes. Asymmetry will be very noticeable and will most likely result in an undesirable appearance.
