Reports of Botox malpractice incidents have become both more frequent and more disturbing. More than 6 million Americans have Botox injections every year, and although most have no complications or side effects, those who do can suffer debilitating injuries. Today, this product is recommended for a variety of medical conditions as well as for cosmetic procedures. Because the injectable chemical is created using the botulinum neurotoxin, an inherent risk comes with every treatment. If the medical practitioner providing the injections fails to follow protocol, the results can be dire.
Common Botox Injuries
When this treatment goes wrong, several types of injuries can occur. One risk is Guillain-Barre syndrome, an autoimmune disease that may lead to paralysis and death. Bell’s palsy is another possible consequence that involves nerve damage and paralysis of the facial muscles. If Botox is administered incorrectly, it may cause trouble with swallowing or producing tears, or you could be left with muscle pain and weakness for life. In many cases, the injured patients are unable to recover, even with proper treatment. Although rare, several cases have been reported wherein the patient actually contracts botulism, potentially leading to brain damage or death.
How to Prove Your Case
Most Botox malpractice cases rest on the idea that the doctor was negligent, although some cases have been attributed to defects in the product itself. In order to prove your case, you must demonstrate that you were harmed and that your doctor did not provide the correct standard of care. This typically involves obtaining copies of medical records and testimony from medical experts who are familiar with the product and its safe use. An experienced medical malpractice attorney is uniquely qualified to help guide you through this complex process, and to ensure that you are fairly compensated for the damage you have suffered.
Reasons to Obtain Legal Help
If you are suffering from any complications due to Botox treatments, whether the treatment was cosmetic or medical in nature, you owe it to yourself to seek help. When you confront medical professionals or drug manufacturers with a lawsuit, you force them to accept the consequences for unsafe products and practices, potentially preventing other patients from facing the same consequences. Your case will also cover any subsequent medical bills or rehabilitation costs you may require, as well as lost wages for any time you were forced to miss work.
If you have experienced ill effects in connection with Botox injections or another medical procedure, contact the compassionate legal team at Rasmussen & Miner. They can answer all your questions and guide you through the complex process of seeking damages for Botox malpractice.