Cosmetic Surgery Severely Burns Patient

This case takes place in Louisiana and involves a middle aged patient who suffered burns after a cosmetic procedure. The plaintiff saw the defending plastic surgeon for laser liposuction procedure using “Smart-lipo” machinery, and was told that the “Smart-lipo” was a low risk procedure. The plastic surgeon then performed the procedure on the plaintiff’s abdomen and flanks. Post-surgery, the patient was found to have suffered extensive burns, and is left with residual scarring around the mid-section. The plaintiff alleges the type of burns suffered indicates the that there was inadequate monitoring of the laser, stating that it was too close to the skin for too long and that the surgeon did not monitor the temperature controls.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Can you briefly outline your experience in "Smart-lipo" laser liposuction procedures?

2. How do ensure the safety of the patient and to avoid any complications such as severe burns?

Expert Witness Response E-006312

In my opinion, it is unacceptable to suffer "extensive burns" and have "residual scarring" due to Smart-lipo. Inadequate monitoring of internal and external temperatures and/or being too superficial are certainly potential causes of such burns. I have performed Smart-lipo for years and have never had a burn on a patient. I use internal and external temperature monitoring (ThermaGuide). I would be pleased to review this case.