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Did a Cosmetic Surgery or Procedure Leave You with Unexpected Problems?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain after a cosmetic procedure that didn’t go as planned, you’re not alone. Mistakes in cosmetic surgery can cause both physical and emotional distress, often with lasting effects. Whether it was a surgical error, poor aftercare, or misleading advice, you may have grounds to take action

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A person wearing a hairnet lies down while another individual marks their face with a pencil, suggesting preparation for cosmetic surgery.

Understanding Cosmetic Surgery Negligence

Cosmetic surgery is often a personal choice aimed at improving confidence and wellbeing. But when things go wrong because of medical negligence, the physical and emotional impact can be devastating.

Medical Negligence can take many forms:

  • Surgical Errors
  • Poor Aftercares
  • Inadequate Consent
  • Treatment by Unqualified Practitioners
If your cosmetic procedure in Ireland has led to avoidable complications, infections, scarring, or lasting injury, you deserve to know your rights and options.

Discuss Your Case With Our Medical Negligence Solicitors

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Medical Negligence Claims

Cosmetic Surgery Claims

  • Cosmetic Surgery Claims
  • Blepharoplasty Claims
  • Rhinoplasty Claims
  • Liposuction Error Claims
  • Gastric Band Surgery

Medical Care and Surgery Claims

Birth & Gynaecological Claims

  • Birth Injury Claims
  • Cerebral Palsy Claims
  • Erb’s Palsy Disorder Claims
  • Gynaecological Injury Claims
  • Obstetric Injury Claims
  • Forceps Injury Claims
  • Perineal Tear Injury Claims

Oncology Claims

    Difference Between a Plastic Surgeon and a Cosmetic Surgeon

    Plastic Surgeons
    Medically trained specialists who perform reconstructive procedures to restore function and appearance, often after trauma, illness, or congenital defects. Their training includes complex surgeries involving skin, muscles, and bones.
    Cosmetic Surgeons
    Focused on enhancing appearance through elective procedures. While some cosmetic surgeons may have medical qualifications, not all are plastic surgeons. Cosmetic surgery is usually optional and aims to improve aesthetic appearance rather than restore function.

    Understanding this difference is crucial when choosing a practitioner, as the level of training and expertise can affect the quality and safety of your treatment.

    Time Limits for Medical Negligence Claims in Ireland

    You have two years to start a medical negligence claim* from the date of injury or from when you became aware of the negligence (“date of knowledge”).

    For children, a claim can be made any time before they turn 18, after which they have two years to claim themselves.

    If the injury isn’t discovered immediately, the time limit may begin from the date it was identified by a doctor or medical expert

    Types of Cosmetic Surgery Negligence

    Negligence in cosmetic surgery can take various forms, including:

    • Surgical mistakes during the operation
    • iInadequate patient assessment before surgery
    • Poor communication about risks and outcomes
    • Lack of proper post-operative care and follow-up
    • Use of unqualified or inexperienced practitioners
    • Failure to obtain informed consent

    Each type can seriously affect the patient’s safety, recovery, and satisfaction.

    Where can Medical Negligence occur?

    Public & Private Hospitals

    Public & Private Maternity Wards

    Public Cosmetic Hospitals

    Dental Surgeries

    Opticians

    What Causes Cosmetic Surgery Negligence?

    Cosmetic surgery negligence can have serious and lasting effects, often arising from errors or substandard care during or after a procedure. Some common causes include:

    Nerve Damage

    This can occur during procedures like facelifts or Botox injections. Damage to facial nerves may lead to loss of sensation, muscle weakness, or permanent facial deformities, affecting both appearance and function.

    Liposuction Complications

    Negligence during liposuction, such as improper technique, can cause severe complications like bowel perforation. Such injuries require additional surgery and extend recovery time.

    Delayed Cancer Diagnosis

    In some cases, cosmetic negligence can extend to serious health risks. For instance, removing a mole incorrectly and failing to identify cancer can delay diagnosis and treatment, worsening the prognosis.

    Personal Injuries from Surgery or Poor Aftercare

    Negligence can result in injuries sustained during surgery or from inadequate post-operative care. For example, failure to monitor a patient properly can lead to infections or delayed healing, causing further complications.

    Surgical Errors

    Mistakes such as incorrect incision placement or damage to internal tissues can result in unsatisfactory outcomes or the need for corrective operations, affecting both physical health and emotional wellbeing.

    Unexpected Scarring

    Poor surgical technique may cause severe or excessive scarring, which can be distressing for patients seeking cosmetic improvements and negatively impact their confidence.

    Nerve Damage from Botox or Filler Injections

    Incorrect administration of Botox or fillers can damage nerves, leading to side effects like facial asymmetry or numbness, which may impact appearance and self-esteem.

    How We Work: Step By Step Process

    A medical negligence claim typically moves through investigation, expert assessment, pre‑litigation steps and then, if not resolved, formal court proceedings and potential trial. In Ireland these claims usually bypass PIAB and issue directly in the courts due to their complexity.

    1. Initial investigation

    - Take a detailed history of treatment, symptoms, and alleged failings, and identify potential defendants (GP, consultant, hospital, HSE, private clinic).

    - Obtain and review all relevant medical records, imaging and test results, along with any prior complaints or correspondence.

    2. Expert opinion and case assessment

    - Instruct an appropriately qualified independent medical expert to address both negligence (substandard care) and causation (did that substandard care cause the injury).

    - Only if a supportive expert report is obtained will a solicitor typically advise proceeding with a medical negligence claim.

    3. Pre‑action steps

    - Send a detailed letter of claim to the practitioner/hospital/HSE, setting out the alleged negligence, injuries, and inviting proposals to settle; protocols increasingly encourage early disclosure and ADR.

    - Allow time for a reasoned response (admissions/denials, records and possibly expert reports) and explore negotiation or mediation where appropriate.

    4. Issuing proceedings

    - Draft and issue a Personal Injuries Summons (or equivalent originating document), usually in the High Court, pleading the factual narrative, alleged breaches, causation and loss, supported by the expert opinion.

    - Serve proceedings on the defendants, who will enter an Appearance and Defence, often accompanied by their own expert reports; further condition and prognosis reports may be obtained as the case progresses.

    5. Case management, resolution or trial

    - Engage in discovery, exchange of witness and expert reports, and attend case‑management or clinical negligence list reviews, with ongoing settlement discussions or ADR.

    - If not resolved, proceed to trial where the judge assesses expert and lay evidence on breach, causation and quantum, and awards or dismisses the claim; limitation is generally two years from the date of injury or knowledge, subject to special rules for minors.

    Because your story matters-just like theirs ..

    Thank you so much Guys !!
    I am writing this review as an absolute necessity as I cannot let the work done by Gibson and associates to go by without acknowledgement. I would recommend this firm to anybody in need of legal assistance.

    I want to single out Ms Anna O Donoghue for a special thank you for exceptional knowledge and the professionalism needed for the complexity of these cases that we brought to Gibson and associates, Thank you Anna, we would have been lost without you.

    Also a massive thank you to our amazing barrister Mr John Kerr BL, unbelievable professionalism honesty and knowledge and a great result for us . Thank you all for the hard work you all did for us Sinead Ivory and the team at Gibson and associates.

    Michael Waters

    Always kept me updated throughout the case and very happy with their work .

    Keith Ahern

    Pleasure to deal with!
    Gibson & Assoiciates are pleasure to deal with, they where very helpful from the start and provided great communication all the way through my case and where always available when I needed them, especially Jessica who always found the time to provide me with updates. 5 star service!

    Joe

    Great service provided over the long process, caused by post pandemic backlog in court. Great contact and frequent updates gathered from company representative. Very kind and helpful assistance received. Definitely recommend Gibson and Associates LLP to care about your cases.

    JJakub Babiarz

    Why you can trust Gibson & Associates LLP

    Client-Focused Results

    If your case qualifies, we’ll pursue it with determination and diligence to get the best possible result for you

    Clear & Honest Guidance

    We offer transparent, straightforward advice on the strength of your case and the likely outcomes—no legal jargon.

    Accredited & Trusted

    We are proud members of the Law Society of Ireland, delivering expert legal services with integrity and care.

    Experienced Personal Injury Solicitors

    Our dedicated team has years of experience handling personal injury claims — from road traffic accidents to workplace injuries.

    The Physical and Emotional Impact of Cosmetic Surgery Negligence

    When cosmetic surgery goes wrong due to negligence, the effects can be far more than skin deep. While these procedures are often chosen to boost confidence or correct a perceived flaw, a negligent outcome can cause lasting physical damage and deep emotional distress.

    Physical Effects of Cosmetic Surgery Negligence

    Negligent cosmetic procedures can result in serious complications, including:
    Scarring, disfigurement, or asymmetry

    • Infections or poor wound healing
    • Nerve damage or loss of sensation
    • Implant rupture or displacement
    • Chronic pain or the need for corrective surgery

    These physical issues may affect mobility, function, or appearance, and often require further medical intervention to address.

    Emotional and Psychological Effects of Cosmetic Surgery Negligence

    The emotional toll can be just as severe as the physical damage. Many individuals experience:
    Loss of self-esteem or body confidence

    • Depression, anxiety, or social withdrawal
    • Feelings of shame, guilt, or regret
    • Distrust of medical professionals or fear of further treatment

    For some, the emotional aftermath of cosmetic surgery negligence can be life-altering, impacting relationships, careers, and overall quality of life.

    At Gibson & Associates, we understand how difficult this experience can be. Our team is here to support you, help you seek accountability, and guide you through the process of claiming compensation for both physical and emotional harm.

    Legal Support for Cosmetic Surgery Negligence in Ireland – Gibson & Associates Can Help You

    1. Compassionate First Contact
    We begin with a free, confidential chat—you tell your story at your own pace. We don’t pressure you to decide immediately; we’re here to listen.
    2. Medical Review with Trusted Experts

    If your situation aligns with possible negligence, we:
    If potential negligence is identified, we collect your HSE or private hospital records and work with independent medical experts to uncover whether standards were breached and how it impacted you.

    3. Handle the Legal Journey for You

    Legal claims can feel overwhelming. We manage every part:

    • Formal requests for medical documentation and records
    • Expert medical and legal reports
    • Communication with hospitals and insurers
    • Negotiation or court representation (most settle before trial)

    You stay informed—but we protect your time and energy.

     

    4. Clear, Compassionate Communication

    We explain every step in everyday language—no jargon. We break down each stage, explain choices clearly, and make sure you always know why we’re moving forward and when.

    5. Claiming What You Deserve

    Compensation may include:

    • General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of lifestyle.
    • Special damages for treatment costs, rehabilitation, home support, lost earnings, and travel

    Unsure Where to Start After a Cosmetic Procedure Went Wrong? Here Are Some Gentle Steps You Can Take Today

    • Pause and seek support. Your recovery is the priority—lean on trusted family, friends, or support services.
    • Collect any records you have. Even notes or receipts could be meaningful later.
    • Reach out when you’re ready. We offer free initial chats to explain timelines (including the 2‑year deadline from awareness of harm) and what a claim might involve.
    • Respect your pace. There is no pressure to proceed; we’re here to support you when you choose.

    How We Support You Through Your Recovery and the Legal Process After Cosmetic Surgery Negligence

    If you’ve suffered harm due to a cosmetic procedure that went wrong—such as surgical errors, poor aftercare, or misleading advice—you may be entitled to compensation.

    At Gibson & Associates LLP, we provide expert legal support for cosmetic surgery negligence cases. We’ll help you understand your rights and guide you through the claims process with care and discretion..

    Book a FREE Discovery Call
    Medical Assessment
    Arranging medical assessment to identify your needs.
    Handling Communications
    Handling all communication throughout the process
    Exploring Legal Options

    Exploring options to help you decide what is best for you

    Court Representation

    Representing you in court if this is needed

    Our Dedicated Medical Negligence Team

    Daireann Gibson
    Managing Partner

    Amanda Walsh
    Partner

    Anna O’Donoghue
    Solicitor

    Blathin Cassidy
    Soilcitor

    Sarah McDaid
    Senior Legal Executive

    Medical Negligence FAQ's

    1. Is there a time limit before engaging with a solicitor?

    Legal proceedings must be commenced within two years of the date of knowledge of the injury, subject to certain exceptions. In a lawsuit, the ‘date of knowledge’ refers to the date on which the plaintiff knew or ought to have known that he or she had suffered an injury.

    An important exception is in the case of persons under the age of 18, who are described in law as minors or infants. For minors, the Statute of Limitations ‘clock’ does not begin until a child reaches their eighteenth birthday. For more information see Child Injury Claims.

    2. What will compensation cover?

    Compensation for a brain injury claim may cover medical expenses, lost wages, future medical bills, future lost earnings, and will take into account the impact of the injury on the individual’s quality of life. Our brain injury solicitors assess each case thoroughly to determine an outcome that is in your best interests.

    3. How do I access my medical records?

    A copy of your medical records can be requested from the hospital, clinic, or medical professional that treated you under the Freedom of Information Act. Alternatively, we can arrange to obtain a copy of your records on your behalf; to do so, you will need to sign an authority form that gives us permission to obtain your records.

    4. What does 'No Win, No Fee' mean?

    The concept of “no win, no fee” (also known as “no foal, no fee”) is common practice among solicitors in Ireland. Under this type of agreement, the solicitor will take on your personal injury or any other type of case, and if the case isn’t won, the solicitor won’t charge you a fee. The sole purpose of “no win, no fee” is to give you the legal power to pursue a claim regardless of your financial state or legal experience.

    5. How Long will the Medical Negligence claim take?

    As a term used in personal injury litigation, general damages refer to the amount placed on the victim’s pain and suffering, which may include psychological trauma, loss of consortium, etc. In essence, general damages relate to non-monetary losses suffered by the claimant and which are not capable of exact quantification.

    The term special damages refers to monetary losses that are quantifiable, such as medical treatment expenses or income loss that has been certified. These are consequential financial losses suffered by you which are directly to the negligent treatment and harm caused.

    In other words, these are ‘out-of-pocket’ expenses incurred which might also include the cost of corrective surgery or treatment, medication, rehabilitation costs, travel expenses, and so on.

    Medical Negligence

    Birth Injury Claims: What Parents Need to Know in Ireland

    Birth Injury Claims: What Parents Need to Know in Ireland

    Birth injuries can have lifelong consequences for both child and parent. If medical negligence is suspected—such as delayed Caesarean sections or mismanaged labour—parents may be entitled to pursue a claim. In Ireland, claims can be made on behalf of the child or mother, with extended time limits applying to minors.

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    Case Studies

    Medical Negligence FAQ's

    1. Is there a time limit before engaging a solicitor for my potential medical negligence action?

    There is no separate deadline for engaging a solicitor in Ireland, but medical negligence actions are generally subject to a two-year limitation period. Seeking legal advice as early as possible is important, as investigating a case requires obtaining medical records, consulting experts, and preparing evidence before any limitation period expires.

    2. What can I recover by way of compensation if my case succeeds?

    Compensation depends on the circumstances of your case and may include damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of earnings, care costs, rehabilitation, travel expenses, and other financial losses caused by the negligence. In some cases, compensation may also cover future treatment needs and ongoing losses.

    3. How do I access my medical records?

    We can request your medical records on your behalf once you sign a form of authority. This allows us to obtain records directly from hospitals, GPs, consultants, and other healthcare providers involved in your treatment. Reviewing these records is often an essential first step when investigating a potential claim.

    4. What does ‘No Win, No Fee’ mean?

    A No Win, No Fee arrangement means we will not charge for our professional legal services if your case is unsuccessful, subject to the terms of our agreement. However, certain expenses, such as expert reports, medical records, and court fees, may still be payable unless otherwise agreed in writing.

    5. How long will a Medical Negligence Claim take?

    There is no fixed timeframe for a medical negligence claim. The process can take months or several years, depending on the complexity of the case, the availability of medical evidence, whether liability is disputed, and if court proceedings are required. We will keep you updated throughout the process and progress your case as efficiently as possible.