Cosmetic surgery is different from plastic surgery, which is generally used to repair or reconstruct tissue or skin damaged by congenital (inherited) disease, injuries or burns. Unlike cosmetic surgery, the primary role of plastic surgery is to restore function; aesthetic improvement is secondary.

Cosmetic surgery, sometimes called aesthetic surgery, was described by a doctor in the journal Clinical Risk as being "…purely elective, a lifestyle choice undertaken to enhance physical appearance, improve self-esteem and boost confidence…". Another doctor says that it differs from all other forms of surgery in that it is a treatment for "want" rather than for "need".

In the 2005 Regulation of Cosmetic Surgery report, published by the Department of Health, cosmetic surgeries are defined as "…operations and other procedures that revise or change the appearance, colour, texture, structure or position of bodily features, which most would consider otherwise to be within the broad range of ‘normal' for that person".

However, to talk about cosmetic surgery in these terms risks belittling its importance to those who choose to undergo a cosmetic surgery procedure. This is because few undertake these procedures lightly and there are many possible and pertinent reasons for doing so. Some of these are listed below:

• Poor self-esteem
• Bullying
• Body image issues
• Relationship insecurities
• Weight loss
• Physical discomfort
• Concerns related to professional appearance

Cosmetic surgery in the UK

According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, more than 50,000 cosmetic surgery procedures were carried out in the UK in 2013. This figure was an increase on the previous year's statictics and forms part of a decade-long rise. The most common procedures are listed below:

• Breast augmentation
• Eyelid surgery
• Face/neck lift
• Breast reduction
• Rhinoplasty - (nose)
• Liposuction - (fat removal)
• Abdominoplasty - (tummy tuck)
• Fat transfer
• Brow lifts
• Otoplasty - (ears)

Cosmetic surgery compensation claims

If cosmetic surgery is not carried out to a reasonable standard it brings with it the risk of considerable harm and complications. If you have been adversely affected by plastic surgery that has gone wrong then contact Thompsons Solicitors to establish whether you might have a valid claim for compensation.

Our specialist personal injury lawyers, widely considered the best in Scotland, will be happy to chat things through with you - including what your rights and funding options are and whether a no win, no fee claim is available to you. They will also be happy to advise you in respect of how much could you claim and the likelihood of success.

Call 0800 0891331 for free legal advice.