The tragic death of Alice Webb, a 33-year-old mother of five, following a non-surgical Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure, has underscored the urgent need for change in the UK’s cosmetic industry.

In aesthetic practice, responding promptly to a patient reporting side effects after an injectable treatment is essential for patient safety, trust, and legal accountability.

Viewed from a clinical standpoint, aesthetic medicine is founded on the four fundamental principles of medical ethics: autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice.

Participating in Bond Solon’s Clinical Negligence Essentials course led by Dr Jock Mackenzie was a valuable experience that significantly enhanced my understanding of clinical negligence law and the role of an expert witness.

Here is an explanation of what constitutes a reasonable body, how it is evaluated, and its role in determining the standard of care.

For the average individual, this standard reflects what a reasonable person would consider appropriate. For professionals, however, the standard is higher, reflecting the expertise and training expected in their field.

From my experience, it is crucial for solicitors to rely on expert witnesses to provide clarity on whether a practitioner’s actions met the expected standard of care.

In medical negligence cases, the existence of a duty of care is rarely in question, but this responsibility extends to non-medical professionals administering non-surgical procedures.

The landmark UK legal case that addressed the importance of dialogue between patients and doctors was Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board [2015] UKSC 11. This case fundamentally changed the standard for informed consent in the UK.

Negligence is a type of civil wrongdoing (tort) that happens when someone fails to take reasonable care, and their actions (or lack of them) cause harm or loss to another person. It’s one of the most common types of claims in personal injury, medical malpractice, and other civil cases.

I attended the Bond Solon Expert Witness Conference 2024 at the prestigious Church House in Westminster, London. Renowned as the leading event for expert witnesses, the conference delivered a packed agenda of insightful discussions, practical guidance, and invaluable networking opportunities.

In aesthetic medicine, obtaining valid consent is about more than just obtaining a signature from the patient. It’s a process that ensures the patient is fully informed and understands what they’re agreeing to.

Regulations can sometimes be unclear in the world of aesthetics and cosmetic procedures, and an expert witness serves as a trusted voice in ensuring fairness when dealing with complications.

As the aesthetic industry continues to grow, so do the complexities surrounding the procedures and treatments offered, making the role of an expert witness increasingly vital.

Finding the right expert witness ensures that you have the most reliable support when presenting your case.

My decision to become an expert witness in aesthetic medicine stems from a combination of professional dedication, patient safety, and a commitment to improving standards in this rapidly growing industry.