Revision cosmetic surgery required after poorly performed ENT procedure

We represented a client in a claim against her surgeon for failing to obtain her consent properly and for exercising poor surgical technique when performing a columelloplasty procedure. This resulted in a significant deformity in her nose.

Our client had suffered difficulties with her nose and sinuses from childhood, experiencing earaches, headaches, breathing problems and a blocked nose. A CT scan showed septal deviation and her surgeon recommended she undergo collumelloplasty surgery. It was our client’s case that she was not warned properly of the risks of the operation, including the possibility of a change in the shape of her nose, and that she was not given an information leaflet about the procedure. Surgery was performed in 2012 and our client alleged that the technique employed fell below an acceptable standard, constituting a breach in the duty of care owed to her.

Post-operatively our client was aware of her columella being very tight and very painful. She had swelling in her upper lip, a reduced range of movement and was concerned about the considerable change in the shape of her nose. Our client underwent columella reconstruction and rhinoplasty at a different hospital, which has only been partially successful, and she may require another cosmetic operation. She needed time off work for the operative procedures and while recuperating.

Despite a denial of liability, the claim has been settled out of court for £18,500.

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