Cosmetic treatments are often marketed as quick, routine and low-risk procedures. But when something goes wrong, the consequences can be serious, long-lasting and life-changing.
A case handled by Thompsons Scotland highlights the very real risks associated with cosmetic procedures and why seeking legal advice early can make a significant difference.
Cosmetic treatment injuries can have serious consequences
Our client attended a cosmetic clinic for laser hair removal, a treatment she had previously undergone without issue. On this occasion, however, the procedure caused a burn injury to her neck, leaving her with visible scarring and ongoing symptoms.
While many people think of cosmetic injuries as minor, the reality can be very different. In this case, the harm went far beyond the initial physical injury. The effects on our client’s confidence, emotional wellbeing and daily life were substantial.
The injury also had a direct impact on her livelihood. Because she had been working abroad in a hot climate, the symptoms and after-effects of the burn made it impossible for her to continue in her role. As a result, she was forced to give up her job and return to the UK.
Why legal advice matters after a cosmetic clinic injury
After concerns were raised with the clinic, our client was offered a partial refund. However, that offer came with an important condition: she would have to agree not to pursue a personal injury claim.
She refused and sought legal advice.
This is a crucial point for anyone injured during a cosmetic treatment. Offers of refunds or goodwill payments may appear helpful at first, but they may not reflect the true impact of the injury, particularly where there is:
- visible scarring
- ongoing pain or symptoms
- psychological harm
- loss of earnings
- future treatment needs
- disruption to work and personal life
Accepting an early offer without advice can mean giving up the right to pursue proper compensation.
How Thompsons Scotland supported the client
At Thompsons, we acted to make sure the full extent of our client’s injuries was properly recognised.
That involved gathering medical evidence, assessing the physical, psychological and financial impact of the injury, and challenging attempts to limit her rights. The goal was not simply to focus on the immediate burn injury, but to present a full picture of how the incident had affected every aspect of her life.
The case has now settled for a significant sum, reflecting the seriousness of the injury and its consequences.
Jennifer Wallace
Jennifer Wallace
“This case highlights the very real harm that can arise when safety standards slip in the cosmetic treatment industry. Even where regulation is in place, injuries such as these can and do occur. Our client’s injury affected every aspect of her life, and it was vital that she received proper recognition and compensation.”
What this case shows about cosmetic treatment negligence
This case is an important reminder that cosmetic treatments carry real risks. Procedures such as laser hair removal, skin treatments, injectables and other beauty treatments should never be seen as risk-free.
If proper standards are not followed, the consequences can include:
- burns
- scarring
- skin damage
- infection
- allergic reactions
- psychological distress
- financial loss
Where an injury has been caused by negligent treatment, it may be possible to make a cosmetic treatment compensation claim.
Should you sign anything after an injury at a cosmetic clinic?
If you have been injured during a cosmetic procedure, you should be cautious about signing documents or accepting payments from the clinic without legal advice.
You should never feel pressured into agreeing to terms that may affect your right to bring a claim. What may seem like a straightforward refund could fall far short of the compensation needed to reflect the true extent of the injury and its wider impact.
Early legal advice can help you understand:
- whether you may have a claim
- what evidence should be preserved
- whether a clinic’s offer is reasonable
- what compensation could include
- what steps to take next
Can you claim compensation for a cosmetic treatment injury?
If a cosmetic treatment has gone wrong and you have suffered injury, scarring or other losses, you may be entitled to seek compensation.
Claims involving cosmetic treatment negligence often depend on evidence about:
- how the treatment was carried out
- whether proper safety procedures were followed
- whether the practitioner acted appropriately
- the extent of the injury
- the impact on your work, finances and mental wellbeing
Each case will depend on its own facts, but legal advice at an early stage can help protect your position.
Speak to Thompsons Scotland about cosmetic treatment claims
When cosmetic treatments go wrong, the effects can be physical, emotional and financial. This case shows why it is so important to take specialist legal advice before accepting any offer from a clinic or provider.
If you have suffered a burn, scar or other injury after a cosmetic procedure, contact Thompsons to discuss your situation, we can advise you on your options and help ensure the full impact of your injury is recognised.
