Harley Street cosmetic surgeon sued over nine minute breast enlargement operation

Posted: 19/12/2016

Caroline Shaw, 23, from south London, underwent a breast enlargement procedure, performed by Mr Saifuddin Khan, at the Riverside Hospital (part of Transform) in Brentford four years ago. She reportedly wanted the surgery because she was self-conscious about the small size of her breasts and Mr Khan advised that she was a good candidate. Miss Shaw paid £4,100 for the procedure.

Miss Shaw claims that her breasts have been left lopsided as a result of the surgery, which has resulted in a significant deformity. She has been advised that she requires revision surgery to improve the current appearance. Mr Khan’s response is that the surgery was carried out with reasonable care and skill and Miss Shaw has experienced a recognised risk for which she consented.

Elise Bevan, a solicitor in the clinical negligence team at Penningtons Manches LLP, said: “Miss Shaw has developed what is known as an asymmetry, which is a recognised risk of breast augmentation surgery, particularly if there is any pre-existing asymmetry. However, the extent of the abnormality in Miss Shaw’s case suggests that the surgical technique was substandard. The medical records for the procedure indicate that it lasted just nine minutes, which would imply it was hurried, and reinforces Miss Shaw’s concerns about the standard of care she received.

“Mr Khan is registered to practise in the UK but does have several Conditions of Practice imposed on him by the General Medical Council (GMC), the medical profession’s regulatory body. This would suggest that there have been previous concerns regarding his suitability and abilities to practise as a cosmetic surgeon. The GMC’s register of medical practitioners is available online for all to use and we would recommend that patients check a surgeon’s background with this useful tool before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.”

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