A South Florida Woman’s Nightmare: Left Disfigured and Nearly Blind by Surgeon, but He Doesn’t Have Insurance
A Personal Deterioration
Seventy-year-old Dian is left with a big patch over her eye and in constant pain due to a botched plastic surgery. She has lost her ability to fully close her eyes and has limited vision, especially in her right eye.
A Desperate Situation
"I was screaming because it was total blackness. I couldn’t even see a little speck of light. Nothing. Completely black," Dian said, recalling the moment she woke up from surgery. "I was told I needed a partial face-lift, and I thought it would make me feel better about myself. Instead, it’s been a nightmare."
Unresponsive Surgeon and Lack of Communication
Dian’s situation only worsened when she tried to contact her surgeon. "He just left me in the waiting room for about three or four hours and the desk girl came in and gave me a bottle of saline and some gauze sponges," she said. As a result, Dian is still experiencing severe pain and discomfort, and her eye is now in danger of being sewn shut.
The Doctor’s Response
7News contacted Dian’s surgeon, who sent an email stating that he "did not operate [on] her eyelids…" He also offered to schedule a follow-up appointment, but it was too late for Dian, who said, "I can’t tolerate air conditioning, fans, cooking, when you open the oven door."
No Insurance Coverage
Dian was dismayed to discover that her surgeon doesn’t have medical malpractice insurance, making it difficult for her to seek legal action. According to attorney William Robinson, doctors who practice outside of hospitals are not required to carry malpractice insurance. However, Robinson advises patients to research whether their doctor carries insurance before undergoing any procedure.
What to Do?
Dian is currently exploring options to address her situation, including seeking another doctor’s opinion and considering alternative treatments. She is also urging patients to be aware of a doctor’s insurance status before undergoing any procedure.
Conclusion
Dian’s story serves as a cautionary tale for patients considering cosmetic surgeries. It highlights the importance of thorough research and due diligence in selecting the right doctor. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for doctors to prioritize patient care and maintain transparency in their practices.
FAQs
Q: What can patients do to ensure a doctor has malpractice insurance?
A: Patients can check a doctor’s profile on the Florida Department of Public Health website or ask the doctor directly.
Q: Can I file a lawsuit if my doctor doesn’t have malpractice insurance?
A: In some cases, patients can sue their doctor personally, but it’s essential to explore other options first.
Q: How can I find the right doctor for my procedure?
A: Research the doctor’s credentials, read reviews, and ask for referrals from trusted sources before making an informed decision.
