In a recent decision, the District Court of New South Wales awarded a Plaintiff $204,674.50 in compensation for injuries arising from a “botched” breast augmentation surgery. Kylie Turner sued surgeon, Dr Blackstock, for performing breast augmentation surgery in circumstances where he was not a qualified surgeon.
In 2014, the Plaintiff undertook a Google search for plastic surgeons which led her to Dr Blackstock’s website. The website had a video and other advertising material that gave the plaintiff the impression that he was a qualified plastic surgeon skilled in breast augmentation surgery. She obtained a quote from Dr Blackstock which was $5,000.00 less than what other surgeons had quoted her.
The surgery took place in Dr Blackstock’s house in October 2014. The plaintiff observed that Dr Blackstock had draped old sheets over living room arm chairs in what had been set up as a makeshift operating room. On the morning of the procedure, the plaintiff was asked to lie on a bench like table where she was administered intravenous sedatives by another doctor who was not a qualified anaesthetist.
As a result of the “botched” surgery, the plaintiff experienced significant injuries and infection. She required a further four surgeries to remove the breast implants and infection.
The Court considered that the treatment provided to the plaintiff was unacceptable, unprofessional and incompetently performed. Dr Blackstock was also heavily criticised for carrying out an operation without an anaesthetist and, also for administering anaesthetic to the patient himself.
This is an interesting case which highlights the need for patients to make appropriate enquiries when considering medical treatment.
For more information on the above article we recommend that you contact Accredited Specialist Joe Bonura on 02 4626 5077 or jbonura@marsdens.net.au.
The contents of this publication are for reference purposes only. This publication does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Specific legal advice should always be sought separately before taking any action based on this publication
