The term ‘fly-in-fly-out surgeons' is used to describe practitioners who carry out cosmetic procedures on a short-term basis but are not permanent residents of the UK. This practice has grown in popularity in recent years as demand for surgery continues to rise. It involves British cosmetic clinics drafting in foreign surgeons on a temporary basis in order to meet the demand for treatments.

Clinics use fly-in-fly-out surgeons to carry out a long list of operations over a condensed period of time on a private basis, then fly out again, leaving the patient under the care of the clinic with no follow up from the surgeon who performed their operation. It is common practice for clinics to encourage the surgeons to complete as many operations as possible in a given day - leading many to criticise this “production-line” style of surgery.

In this blog post, we put the spotlight on fly-in-fly-out surgery, highlighting the risks that this can pose to a patient’s wellbeing and the potential of this practice leading to cases of cosmetic surgery negligence.

How does fly-in-fly-out surgery work?

Clinics that operate using fly-in-fly-out surgery usually pay surgeons according to the number of procedures they carry out, encouraging them to conduct as many operations as possible. With clinics’ income being determined by the number of patients they take on, there is pressure to obtain consent quickly from those considering surgery, upon which they will be moved through the process as quickly as possible.

Patients who are thinking of undergoing cosmetic surgery need to be provided with proper consultations before and after their procedure, allowing them to make informed decisions while understanding any potential risks and side effects. Fly-in-fly-out surgery does not always allow for follow-up consultation with the operating surgeon in the event of any complications.

We often find that many individuals who have suffered negligence or are unhappy with the treatment they have received feel short-changed by the care they have been given, having had little or no interaction with the person performing their surgery.

Why is fly-in-fly-out surgery dangerous?

All cosmetic surgeons operating in Britain must be registered with the General Medical Council, however, foreign surgeons often have insurance with foreign insurers, which may contain various exclusions or limitations which could result in no cover for any claims made in relation to surgery carried out in the UK. Therefore, patients who suffer complications from their surgery may find it much more difficult to successfully claim compensation.

In many cases, when trying to claim compensation on behalf of clients who have suffered cosmetic negligence, legal experts find there is a distinct lack of cooperation in establishing who the surgeon’s provider of medical indemnity insurance is. Often, even when the insurer has been identified, foreign insurance companies are slow to respond and lack experience relating to clinical negligence laws in the UK. This prevents the legal process from proceeding as efficiently as it usually would.

When a patient has undergone treatment from a fly-in-fly-out surgeon and wants to claim compensation, the entire process can be more difficult and time-consuming.

Another reason why fly-in-fly-out surgeons can have a negative impact is that they are often difficult to locate in the event that a patient who was under their care is seeking compensation for negligence. This means that such cases can go on for much longer than they would usually, had the surgeon been accredited in the UK.

How can I tell if my surgeon is safe?

To increase your chance of safe and effective surgery, individuals who are considering undergoing a cosmetic procedure should take steps to look for a UK-based surgeon and is also insured here. Where possible, looking for a surgeon who also works for the NHS will help to ensure you are seeking treatment from a reputable professional.

At Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors, we advise individuals who are thinking about surgery to follow these steps:

• Seek recommendations from friends or family members who may have undergone a similar procedure to the one you are looking for. You can also gain valuable information from:
  • Your GP
  • The General Medical Council’s specialist register
  • The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeons
  • The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
  • Royal College of Surgeons
• Check the qualifications of the surgeon in question
• Be prepared to pay - cosmetic procedures are expensive, and this is justified by their complex nature and the level of skill involved with performing such a major operation
• Ask the questions you need before surgery

Find out more about selecting a safe cosmetic surgeon in our online guide.

Speak to us

If you have suffered negligence while undergoing surgery that you believe was carried out by a fly-in-fly-out surgeon, we can help. Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors has a proven track record of excellence when it comes to helping people who have endured botched cosmetic surgery.

Visit our contact us page to get in touch.

Is it Ok to Sneeze After Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty surgery is a cosmetic procedure that alters the structure and appearance of the nose. During the healing process, the nasal tissues are extremely delicate and nose surgery patients should avoid doing anything that could risk damage while they are healing. Some patients may wonder whether sneezing episodes could affect their surgical outcome and may want to understand how to mitigate these risks.

This blog will outline what the risks of sneezing are on rhinoplasty results, what the signs of damage are and the actions patients can take to ensure a smooth healing process after nose reshaping surgery.

Is it ok to sneeze after rhinoplasty?

Sneezing after a nose job can put strain on the delicate nasal tissues as they heal. While it is not possible to completely avoid sneezing, taking precautions can help prevent complications. Forceful sneezing can lead to swelling, bleeding, or even changes in the results of the surgery. To minimise the impact, patients are advised to sneeze with their mouths open, which helps to reduce pressure on the nasal structures during sneezing.

During the initial weeks of recovery, the nose is particularly vulnerable. The internal structures are still settling, and any excessive force could disrupt healing. If sneezing becomes frequent due to allergies or irritants, consult a medical professional for advice on managing symptoms safely.

What advice should I follow when recovering from rhinoplasty?

Proper aftercare is essential for a successful rhinoplasty recovery. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidance, which typically includes:

• Avoiding strenuous activities: heavy lifting, exercise and bending over can increase blood pressure and swelling.
• Keeping the head elevated: sleeping with the head propped up on pillows can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Avoiding nose blowing: forceful nose blowing can disrupt healing and lead to complications such as bleeding.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet: proper nutrition supports tissue repair.
• Following medication instructions: any prescribed pain relief or antibiotics should be taken as directed to aid healing and prevent infection.
• Avoid wearing glasses: given that glasses rest on the bridge of the nose, this can place pressure on the healing nasal structures that could affect the final surgical outcome. Surgeons may recommend that patients avoid glasses for a minimum of four to six weeks following surgery, opting for contact lenses where possible.

How do I know if I damaged my rhinoplasty because of sneezing?

If the nose experiences excessive force - whether from a sneeze or accidental impact - patients may be concerned about whether their rhinoplasty results have been affected. Signs of potential damage include:

• Sudden or increased swelling: some swelling is normal after surgery, but unexpected or prolonged swelling may indicate an issue.
• Persistent nasal pain: if discomfort worsens rather than improves, it could suggest internal irritation or damage to the nasal passages.
• Changes in nasal shape: any visible changes in symmetry or structure may be a sign that the healing process has been disrupted.
• Nasal bleeding: while minor spotting can occur, persistent or heavy bleeding should be evaluated by a medical professional.

If any of these signs appear, consult your surgeon promptly to assess whether additional care or adjustments are needed.

Recognising the signs of surgical complications

While sneezing can put strain on the healing nose and potentially affect rhinoplasty results, all cosmetic surgery carries some level of risk that could occur regardless if the patient sneezes or not. Rhinoplasty is no exception, and while complications are uncommon, they can sometimes occur even when patients carefully follow post-operative care instructions.

Patients should be aware of the warning signs that could indicate a complication, including:

• Persistent or worsening pain: discomfort that does not improve or suddenly worsens could indicate an issue with healing.
• Excessive swelling that does not subside: while some swelling is expected, prolonged or severe swelling beyond what was discussed could be a sign of fluid retention or another complication.
• Prolonged or heavy bleeding: minor spotting is normal in the early stages, but ongoing or excessive bleeding should be assessed by a medical professional.
• Difficulty breathing: some nasal congestion is expected in the immediate aftermath of rhinoplasty, however, if nasal airflow becomes significantly obstructed or breathing issues continue beyond what was expected, it may indicate internal swelling or a structural issue.
• Signs of infection: redness, warmth, unusual discharge or fever could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.
• Visible changes in nasal shape: if the nose appears asymmetrical or changes unexpectedly, there may be a disruption in the healing process.

Understanding your surgeon's duty of care

Your surgeon has a legal and ethical duty of care to ensure that procedures like rhinoplasty are carried out safely and to a reasonable standard. This duty extends from the initial consultation through to post-operative care, your safety and wellbeing at every stage.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing full and accurate information: surgeons must explain the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of rhinoplasty, allowing patients to make an informed decision.
• Conducting thorough pre-surgical assessments: a surgeon must evaluate a patient’s medical history, overall health, and suitability for the procedure.
• Following best medical practices: during surgery, the surgeon must adhere to industry standards and regulatory guidelines to minimise risks and complications.
• Ensuring proper post-operative care: patients should receive clear aftercare instructions, access to follow-up appointments, and prompt support if complications arise.
• Acting in the patient’s best interests: surgeons should never pressure individuals into undergoing surgery and must ensure patients have realistic expectations about their results.

Finding help if your surgeon was negligent

Should you believe that your surgeon performed your rhinoplasty surgery negligently, experts in rhinoplasty surgery claims such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors will be able to help you make a claim for compensation. Our friendly, knowledgeable team can help you to understand your rights, compile evidence needed to build a case and secure compensation on your behalf.

Speak to our team today by calling 0808 231 6370 or using our online contact form.