Plastic surgery can change your life, for better or for worse. No one expects to undergo these procedures and leave with regrets. It’s a big decision that is supposed to boost your confidence. Yet, as these procedures become more and more popular, so do the lawsuits from patients who feel as though they were misled, mistreated, or left with results they never agreed to.
It’s without a doubt that more and more Americans are undergoing these procedures. So why the rise in disputes? Why are most patients ending up in courtrooms instead of recovery rooms?
“In my experience, patients could prevent most disputes by recognizing the warning signs—rushed consultations, unclear pricing, or surgeons who won’t answer questions. If a doctor isn’t transparent before surgery, they likely won’t be accountable after it,” says Dr. Olivier Deigni of Deigni Plastic Surgery.
In today’s article, we’ll discuss why plastic surgery disputes are rising, the warning signs you should watch out for, and how to stay proactive and protect yourself before entering the consultation room.
Are Plastic Surgery Disputes on the Rise?
In 2018, Americans spent more than an estimated $16 billion on plastic surgery procedures. In the same year, Texas accounted for approximately 8.5% of all plastic surgeries performed in the U.S.
With that in mind, here are the factors driving the rising cases of plastic surgery disputes:
- Unrealistic patient expectations: Many disputes start with a dream that ends in disappointment. For example, when a patient expects a perfect nose but the results are better, it is not perfect. Before making that decision, it’s essential to have clear expectations of what a surgeon can and can’t do.
- When surgery isn’t the real solution: Surgeries change bodies, but they can’t fix deeper self-esteem and emotional issues. Surgeons who rush consultations risk operating on patients with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). Many patients choose to sue when multiple surgeries fail to meet their unrealistic expectations.
- Communication failures: A patient can sue if they don’t understand the risks, recovery time, and the possibility of complications associated with the surgery.
- Negligence in aftercare: Poor aftercare is another major driver of disputes. A patient with no postoperative instructions from their surgeon may develop infections or other complications, which could lead to a trial showdown.
- Fly-in, Fly-out surgeons: Some surgeons travel to clinics to operate and then vanish to other countries, leaving patients with no continuity of care.
Warning Signs to Watch Out for Before Surgery
Believe it or not, a bad plastic surgery experience does not start in the operating room; it begins with the moment you make the decision. With the right mindset, questions, and a sharp eye, you can avoid a lot of regret and a lawsuit. Here are some warning signs to watch out for before surgery:
- Rushed consultations: If your consultation feels like a speed date, run. A good, experienced surgeon will take time to explain the procedure, the risks, results, and potential complications. If your surgeon doesn’t answer your questions now, they likely won’t pick up your calls later.
- No written summary of the consultation: They can’t be trusted if they can’t put your consultation in writing. Verbal promises can disappear after surgery, but paperwork doesn’t.
- Overseas clinics with “Quick Fix” packages: Bargain surgeries abroad may seem like a good idea, but they often have hidden caveats, like no follow-up care and vanishing surgeons.
- No psychological screening: If your surgeon doesn’t care why you want surgery, they likely won’t care about your results.
- Vague pricing and contracts: Be wary if the price sounds too good to be true. Hidden fees and unclear refund policies are major causes of lawsuits.
Conclusion
Many plastic surgery disputes are preventable. It all comes down to your mindset, chosen surgeon, and ability to note and avoid red flags.