Is laser burns from lipo considered malpractice?

Question

My surgeon offered to fix my unhappy results at no charge, but he burnt me so bad that I am afraid for him to touch me again, but I am not satisfied. Please ADVISE..

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Burns are a known complication of some forms of energy based liposuction, and no one is immune to complications.

Mark Eberbach, MD · Answer

This is a tough one. Burns are certainly a risk of laser liposuction. But was there negligence?  That will be the question. It will come down to experience, training, and performance of the procedure. The extent of damage will speak to this as well. A small area happens. Multiple areas or large extent are more worrisome. I hope this helps.

Emese Kalnoki, MD · Answer

No, burns from laser liposuction are not necessarily considered malpractice.  This is a known complication from this procedure.  Malpractice by definition constitutes negligent or illegal professional activity.  Complications such as burns, contour irregularities, asymmetry, and divots are all possibilities from liposuction procedures.  It is understandable that you are upset that you did not achieve the aesthetic result that you desired, but it does not necessarily constitute "illegal or negligent behavior".  The most important thing is to focus on healing your body.  I would talk to your plastic surgeon, or find another surgeon in your area, to help you through the healing process.  Burn scars can take a full year to heal.  The end result may be improved significantly with good wound care.  Good luck!

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

Sorry to hear about your burns, Icm1964.
I believe that the best person you can talk to is a medical malpractice lawyer, but I can tell you that there have been several past instances where patients sued their plastic surgeons due to laser lipo burns.
And if you want to have your scars fixed but are afraid to let your current plastic surgeon touch you again, there’s nothing wrong with looking for another reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon for your needs.
I wish you the best of luck in this one.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Only in person examination can determine the potential corrective measures you would need. Complications of a surgery are not deemed malpractice. So best to seek a few second opinions.

Stacy Peterson, MD (retired) · Answer

This is precisely why I will not perform the laser liposuction.  I have had multiple patients from other facilities with disfiguring contour irregularities to complete tissue loss.  Unfortunately, these are the risks from this procedure.  Please seek the advice of a local Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, NOT a cosmetic surgeon, for your options on possible improvement to the areas you are concerned with.

Is laser burns from lipo considered malpractice?

Answers (6)

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