What Happens When Cosmetic Surgery Goes Wrong in Australia?

If you're experiencing a complication after surgery, your first call should be to your surgeon's rooms. Most surgeons have after-hours protocols, and early intervention often makes a significant difference. If you can't reach them or it's an emergency, go to your nearest emergency department.

This guide covers what to do in the immediate aftermath, how to lodge complaints, your legal options, and — just as importantly — how to reduce the risk of things going wrong in the first place.

[IMAGE: Supportive, calm image of someone making a phone call — warm tones, not distressed, conveying "getting help" rather than crisis]

What Should I Do Immediately If Something Feels Wrong?

Call your surgeon's rooms. This is always step one. Describe what you're experiencing clearly and follow their advice. Most practices have nurse lines or after-hours numbers for exactly this situation.

If you can't reach your surgeon, present to the emergency department at your nearest hospital. Bring any paperwork you have about your procedure, including the type of implants used (if applicable), medications prescribed, and your surgeon's contact details.

Don't wait and hope it gets better. Some complications — like infection, excessive bleeding, or unusual swelling — need prompt attention. Delaying can make them harder to treat.

Keep a record. Document what's happening with photos, written notes, and timestamps. This is useful for your treating medical team and may be relevant if you need to lodge a complaint later.

What Are the Most Common Complications?

All surgery carries risks. Your surgeon should discuss these with you before the procedure. Common complications in cosmetic surgery include:

• Infection — redness, swelling, warmth, discharge, or fever after surgery
• Haematoma or seroma — a collection of blood or fluid under the skin
• Asymmetry — uneven results that may require revision
• Scarring — scars that heal differently than expected (raised, widened, or discoloured)
• Implant-related issues — capsular contracture, rupture, or malposition (for procedures involving implants)
• Nerve damage — temporary or permanent changes in sensation
• Anaesthesia reactions — nausea, allergic reactions, or more serious adverse events

Experiencing a complication doesn't necessarily mean something was done wrong. Some complications happen even with excellent surgical technique and appropriate care. What matters is how your surgeon responds and manages the situation.

How Do I Lodge a Complaint With AHPRA?

If you believe your surgeon acted unsafely, unethically, or below an acceptable standard, you can report this to AHPRA.

AHPRA Cosmetic Surgery Hotline: 1300 361 041 Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm AEST. A specialised team will listen to your experience and guide you on next steps.

You can also lodge a formal complaint online through the AHPRA website. AHPRA investigates complaints about registered health practitioners and can take action including conditions on registration, suspension, or cancellation.

Things AHPRA can investigate:

• Unsafe clinical practices
• Inadequate informed consent
• Misleading advertising
• Operating outside the scope of training
• Failure to provide appropriate aftercare

AHPRA cannot award financial compensation. For that, you'd need to explore legal options separately.

What About State Health Complaints Commissioners?

Each state and territory has a Health Complaints Commissioner (or equivalent) that handles complaints about health services. These bodies can:

• Investigate your complaint independently of AHPRA
• Facilitate mediation between you and the practitioner
• Make recommendations about practice standards

These are separate from AHPRA and can sometimes act faster. Your state body depends on where you live or where the treatment took place.

Do I Have Legal Options?

If you've suffered harm due to a practitioner's negligence, you may have grounds for a medical negligence claim. This is a legal matter, and we'd recommend seeking advice from a lawyer who has experience with medical negligence cases.

Key points to be aware of:

• Time limits apply. Most states have limitation periods for filing negligence claims. Don't delay seeking legal advice.
• You'll need evidence. Medical records, photos, and an independent medical opinion from another surgeon can strengthen a claim.
• Costs vary. Some medical negligence lawyers work on a "no win, no fee" basis. Ask about fee structures upfront.
• It takes time. Medical negligence claims can take months or years to resolve.

We're not lawyers and this isn't legal advice. If you're considering this path, consult a qualified legal professional.

What About Revision Surgery?

If your results are unsatisfactory but don't involve negligence, revision surgery may be an option. Here's what to know:

Who performs the revision? You can return to your original surgeon or seek a different one. If you've lost confidence in the original surgeon, getting a fresh opinion is completely reasonable.

Who pays? This depends on your arrangement. Some surgeons offer reduced revision fees within a certain timeframe (typically 12 months). Others charge full price. Some complications may be covered by warranty (particularly implant-related issues). Always ask about revision policies before your initial procedure — not after.

Finding a revision specialist. Revision surgery is often more complex than the original procedure. Look for a surgeon with specific experience in revision work for your procedure. How to Find and Compare Cosmetic Surgeons in Australia can help.

[IMAGE: Two professionals having a calm, supportive conversation across a desk — warm, reassuring atmosphere]

How Can I Reduce the Risk Before Surgery?

The best way to handle complications is to reduce the likelihood of them happening. Most of the risk factors are within your control:

Choose a qualified surgeon. Verify their AHPRA registration, FRACS qualification, and facility accreditation. How to Check if Your Surgeon is Qualified walks through the process step by step.

Watch for red flags. Pressure to book quickly, vague qualifications, and unaccredited facilities are all warning signs. Red Flags When Choosing a Cosmetic Surgeon has the full list.

Ask the right questions. Understand the specific risks of your procedure, the surgeon's complication rate, and their aftercare plan before you commit. Questions to Ask Any Surgeon Before You Book provides a complete checklist.

Follow post-operative instructions. Your surgeon's aftercare instructions exist for a reason. Follow them carefully — especially around activity restrictions, medications, and follow-up appointments.

Don't rush the decision. Take the recommended cooling-off period. Get multiple consultations. Make sure you're doing this for the right reasons and with realistic expectations.

If you want help finding qualified, AHPRA-registered surgeons matched to your needs, take Pirk's free surgeon matching quiz.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sue my cosmetic surgeon in Australia?

You may be able to pursue a medical negligence claim if you've suffered harm due to a practitioner's failure to meet an acceptable standard of care. This is a legal matter that requires professional advice. Time limits apply, so don't delay seeking legal counsel if you're considering this option.

What if my surgeon won't see me after a complication?

If your surgeon is refusing to provide follow-up care after a complication they caused or should manage, that's a serious concern. Present to an emergency department if needed, contact another surgeon for an independent assessment, and consider lodging a complaint with AHPRA (1300 361 041). A surgeon has an ongoing duty of care to their patients.

Does health insurance cover revision surgery?

Generally not for cosmetic procedures. If the revision relates to a complication from a medically necessary procedure that was covered by Medicare, your insurance may contribute. Check with your health fund directly and ask your surgeon about the applicable circumstances.

How do I find a surgeon for revision work?

Revision surgery requires specific experience. Look for a FRACS-qualified plastic surgeon who has substantial experience with revision cases for your particular procedure. Get at least two consultations before proceeding. Pirk can help match you — take the quiz.

Should I tell the new surgeon about my bad experience?

Absolutely. Give them the full picture — what procedure was done, when, by whom, what complications occurred, and what treatment you've received. Withholding this information makes it harder for them to help you. Bring any relevant medical records and imaging.

Disclaimer: Pirk is not a medical provider. We're here to support your decisions and help connect you with qualified, registered health practitioners. All procedures are performed by qualified surgeons or registered health practitioners, and any medical advice should always come directly from your treating provider. We guide you through the journey, but all medical decisions are made between you and your surgeon.