Legal Question in Medical Malpractice in New Hampshire

Overdose of collagen injection causes facial pain and scarring

My plastic surgeon bills for collagen injection treatments by the amount of collagen injected. Each time (three in all) he has used the same amount, a full unit dose, although the wrinkles continued to lessen and were never as severe as prior to my first visit. Four weeks ago was my last visit. One side of my face split open from the underlying pressure. This occurred several days after the injection. There was excessive discoloration of that side of the face. That side is still painful, swollen, and will clearly leave a scar. I had to go to Fl. two days after I received the injection. The area was kept clean. There was no signs of infection (I am an R.N.)

I will see the Dr. tomorrow. My question is what consideration am I intitled to legally. At this point it is not clear if his office will charge me for the follow up visit. I know this reaction which I am experiencing is not normal. I would like to know what I should expect - repair of the scarring ? The scar is approx. 1/2 inch x 14 inch

1/2 inch from the corner of my mouth. By the way the trip to Florida was ruined by it and I refuse to go to work until it is less apparent. I am embarassed I paid $360. for this. Thank you for replying.


Asked on 12/07/99, 9:34 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

David Austin Burke & Eisner, P.A.

Re: Overdose of collagen injection causes facial pain and scarring

While it is certainly possible that you have a malpractice claim it is hard to tell from your post. Only a review of the records involved here could tell for sure.

One overriding problem with pursuing a malpractice claim is that they are very expensive. Measuring in the thousands of dollars to just get to trial and prepare a case. This could be an issue with your case, but I recommend at least talking to an attorney. The size of the scar you describe is large and could warrant a review.

Fell free to give me a call.

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Answered on 12/09/99, 8:32 pm


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