Research shows that the Canadian market for Botox and similar dermal fillers is expected to rise at a rate of 7.6 percent per year in the coming years. However, improperly administered Botox injections and dermal fillers can cause adverse reactions that, in extreme cases, may even result in death. If you believe you have been harmed by Botox injections in British Columbia, a Vancouver personal injury lawyer can explain your legal rights.
What are Botox and Dermal Fillers?
Botox and dermal fillers are two popular, minimally invasive injectable cosmetic procedures that reduce wrinkles and smooth imperfections in the skin, particularly around the face and neck. Botox works by relaxing facial muscles that contribute to wrinkles. Dermal fillers expand underneath the skin to give the face a fuller appearance. Both Botox and dermal fillers are outpatient procedures that take a few hours to complete.
Can a Botox or Filler Reaction be Considered Medical Malpractice?
Botox and dermal fillers are medical procedures, and professional negligence can cause unnecessary complications. Various types of medical errors in the administration of Botox or dermal fillers could constitute malpractice, such as:
- Injecting too much Botox or filler
- Injecting Botox or filler into the wrong location or sensitive organs
- Failing to obtain informed consent
- Neglecting follow-up care
Harmful Botox reactions or filler reactions can be considered malpractice if they result from substandard care or negligence on the part of the medical practitioner.
Common Complications That Could Indicate Negligence
Medical complications and reactions that could result from Botox or dermal filler malpractice include:
- Drooping facial features
- Pain, redness, and swelling
- Muscle weakness
- Infection at the injection site
- Granulomas and skin lesions
- Allergic reactions
- Hypertrophic scarring
- Filler migration
- Breathing problems
- Tissue death
Steps to Take if You Suffered an Injury
Just because you experienced an adverse reaction to a Botox or filler procedure doesn’t mean you’re the victim of medical negligence. The first thing you need to do is to get a second opinion on your condition. Another medical professional can offer an opinion on whether your reaction was a typical side effect or the result of professional error.
Next, collect hard copies of any medical documentation relating to your injuries or complications and make personal notes about the progression of your condition. Finally, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your potential to file a cosmetic procedure injury claim against the practitioner.
Proving Negligence in a Botox or Filler Case
Proving negligence typically involves demonstrating that the provider who treated you exhibited a lack of care that a reasonable and competent professional with similar training would not have shown in the same circumstances. Expert testimony concerning safety and accepted techniques in the cosmetic industry typically forms a core piece of evidence in Botox and dermal filler injury cases.
Contact Our Experienced Vancouver Cosmetic Injury Lawyers
If you suspect you have been the victim of a botched Botox or dermal filler procedure, getting legal advice is the first step towards pursuing compensation for your injuries. Contact Warnett Hallen LLP to arrange a free consultation with a member of our legal team.
