Errors in breast reduction surgery

Miss Graham underwent surgery to reduce the size of her breasts. Over the following 18 months she suffered a series of infections and abscesses in both breasts which left her with extensive and unsightly scarring.

We obtained evidence from an independent surgeon who confirmed that the surgery had not been performed adequately and that an excessive amount of tissue and skin had been removed. He also advised that when infection developed Miss Graham should have undergone further corrective surgery urgently, which would have improved the cosmetic outcome.

Compensation: £85,000

Inadequately performed breast surgery

Mrs Williams underwent bilateral breast surgery. Prior to the operation she was specifically told that her nipples would not be moved during surgery. When the bandages were removed after the operation Mrs Williams discovered that he nipples had been moved and were in a very high position. She also experienced loss of sensation in her breasts.

We pursued a claim for Mrs Williams on the basis that the surgery had been performed inadequately. Mrs Williams was very upset by the scarring and appearance of her breasts after the surgery and suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Compensation: £50,000

Failure of nipple graft following breast reduction surgery

Mrs Moore underwent breast reduction surgery, after which she noticed that her left nipple had turned blue, she was advised that this was no cause for concern and her breast was redressed more tightly. She was discharged and continued to see her GP’s practice nurse for the changing of the dressings. Her right nipple subsequently turned blue, again she was told not to worry. When Mrs Moore went back to the hospital for review she was advised that her nipples had died and she then had to undergo skin grafts.

We pursued a claim for Mrs Moore on the basis that the surgeon had not used the correct technique during the original operation and that this had led to the loss of the nipples.

Compensation: £70,000

These are genuine case studies, although the names of our clients have been changed to protect their right to privacy and confidentiality.