Last Updated on May 1, 2025 by tanya

Botched Hair Transplants

 

Red Flags and How to File a Cosmetic Surgery Negligence Claim

 

There has been a surge in hair transplants in the cosmetic industry in the last few years, but there is always a risk of a botched hair transplant. While it has become an increasingly popular solution for hair loss for men and women, it can be devastating if it does not go as planned.

There has been advancement in surgical techniques and there has even been reports of beard transplants also gaining favour. However, if you have experienced harm due to a botched hair transplant, you may be considering filing a cosmetic negligence claim for compensation.

 

At First Personal Injury, we may be able to help as we partner with lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who can assess your case.

 

What Is a Hair Transplant?

A hair transplant is a surgical procedure that involves removing hair follicles. They are taken from one part of the body (usually the back of the head) and transplanted to areas where hair is thinning or bald. The two most common types are:

 

• FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) which transplants individual follicles.
• FUT (Follicular Unit Transplantation) which involves removing strips of scalp for transplant.

 

When performed correctly by a qualified and experienced surgeon, the results can be life-changing for the patient. But if it goes wrong, the physical and psychological fall-out may be severe.

 

How Can a Hair Transplant Be Botched?

A botched hair transplant can result from poor surgical technique, unqualified staff, unsanitary conditions, or lack of aftercare are all causes of a botched hair transplant. Some common complications include:

 

Scarring and Infection

If the clinic does not maintain proper hygiene standards, you could potentially develop infections that lead to permanent scarring.

 

Unnatural Hairline

A skilled surgeon will design a natural-looking hairline. A botched job might leave you with an uneven or unrealistic hairline which attracts unwanted attention.

 

Patchy Hair Growth

Improper technique can cause uneven hair distribution. This results in bald patches or a “moth-eaten” appearance.

 

Poor Graft Survival Rate

Incompetent surgeons may possibly damage hair follicles during extraction or implantation. This could lead to poor graft survival and unsatisfactory results.

 

Overharvesting Donor Area

Removing too many follicles from the donor site can lead to visible thinning, scarring, or permanent damage.

 

Red Flags Before a Hair Transplant

Prevention is always better than cure. When choosing who to go for your treatment, red flags to watch for include:

 

Lack of Proper Credentials

Always verify that the clinic and surgeon are properly registered.

 

Aggressive Sales Tactics

Reputable clinics will never pressure you into booking a procedure. Be wary of high-pressure sales techniques or limited-time offers.

 

No Face-to-Face Consultation

A genuine consultation should include a personalised assessment by the surgeon who will perform the procedure. Consultations should not happen with a salesperson or technician.

 

Too-Good-To-Be-True Pricing

Cheap procedures often come at a cost. Lower prices may reflect substandard facilities, inexperienced staff, or clinics with poor regulations in place.

 

No Clear Aftercare Plan

Aftercare is crucial for the success of your transplant. A reputable clinic will provide detailed post-op instructions and follow-up appointments.

 

What to Do If Your Hair Transplant Goes Wrong

If you suspect you’re a victim of cosmetic surgery negligence, take the following steps:

 

Seek Medical Advice

Your health is your priority. Visit your GP or a dermatologist to assess the damage and rule out infections or further complications.

 

Document Everything

Take clear, dated photos of your scalp from multiple angles. Save all emails, medical costs including receipts, and any communication with the clinic.

 

Consult a Solicitor

Reach out to a solicitor experienced in cosmetic surgery compensation claims. They can help you determine whether you have a valid case.

 

How to File a Cosmetic Surgery Negligence Claim

To pursue a claim, here’s what you need to know:

 

Establish Duty of Care

Your solicitor will have to show that the clinic owed you a duty of care and failed to meet acceptable medical standards.

 

Prove Breach of Duty

Evidence must show that the procedure was carried out negligently which directly resulted in physical, emotional, or financial harm.

 

Time Limits

You usually have three years from the date of the procedure, or the date you realised something went wrong—to file a claim.

 

Compensation You May Receive

Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be entitled to compensation which covers:

 

• Cost of corrective surgery
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of earnings
• Travel and medical expenses

 

Take The First Step

If you or a loved one has been through this type of negligence, First Personal Injury can advise you on a potential claim. We work with highly experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and your information remains confidential.

 

Contact First Personal Injury on 0333 358 2345 or contact us online  to learn about your compensation options in a free, no-obligation consultation.