Multiple Plastic Surgery Procedures
How much plastic surgery is too much? Don’t ask Heidi Montag that question. Her answer may be, “There’s no such thing as too much plastic surgery.” Just last month, Heidi Montag, the 23-year old star of the reality show “The Hills,” underwent ten surgeries at one time to improve her looks. This was Heidi’s second time having cosmetic surgery done, and she has said it won’t be her last. Working in such a competitive industry causes many actors to seek cosmetic surgery to improve their looks and appear younger.
It is the responsibility of a patient’s doctor and medical staff to explain the risks associated with cosmetic surgery. Complications can arise that would jeopardize the patient’s health and future well-being. Some risks that can arise from cosmetic surgery include blood loss, blood clots, asymmetry, loss of sensation, irregularities and surgical errors. If any of these complications resulted from doctor or hospital negligence, the patient has a basis for a medical malpractice case.
In Heidi Montag’s case, she experienced breathing problems after her surgeries relating to the drug Demerol, which is a pain medication. “I almost died after my procedure” were headlines in news sources around the country, including MSNBC. The medical staff tending to Heidi denied the allegations. However, had it been proven that negligence caused Heidi to have short-term or long-term problems, she could sue the medical staff and facility where she was being monitored.
Heidi also claims she has experienced loss of movement in her face, which is a common after-effect of cosmetic surgery. If the loss of movement persists, the surgeon who performed her surgery could be held responsible.
Medical malpractice is a very serious allegation and could irreparably damage a doctor’s reputation and cost his or her license. A personal injury lawyer would have to prove the medical professional acted in an irresponsible manner. Damages could be awarded for pain and suffering, medical and other related expenses, and loss of income.
Will these risks and the complications Heidi experienced put an end to her quest for perfection? The answer is no.
Michael Monheit is the managing lawyer at Monheit Law, outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has practiced law since 1989. Michael Monheit was the managing attorney of the law offices of Herbert Monheit — now Silverman and Fodera — a firm... Michael Monheit→