Arm Lift (Brachioplasty) Malpractice in Turkey – Legal Guide for Victims

Over the last decade, Turkey has become a leading destination for medical tourism, offering affordable cosmetic surgery with skilled surgeons and modern clinics. Among these procedures, arm lifts—also known as brachioplasty—have grown in popularity for reshaping and tightening sagging upper arms.

While many patients enjoy positive results, not all surgeries go as planned. Some patients suffer complications due to medical negligence or malpractice, leaving them with physical, emotional, and financial burdens.

If you believe you have been a victim of arm lift malpractice in Turkey, understanding your rights, the legal process, and how to seek compensation is essential.

Understanding Arm Lift Surgery

An arm lift surgery removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms to create a more toned and youthful appearance. This procedure is often performed after significant weight loss or due to age-related skin laxity.

When performed correctly, an arm lift can deliver excellent results. However, errors in surgical technique, poor planning, or inadequate aftercare can lead to long-term complications.

Common Complications of Arm Lift Surgery

Some side effects are normal after surgery, but certain complications may point to negligence:

  1. Infections
    • Caused by unsterile surgical environments or improper wound care.
    • Can result in fever, swelling, pus, or severe pain.
  2. Scarring and Asymmetry
    • Poor surgical technique can leave excessive, uneven, or keloid scars.
    • Asymmetry between arms may occur if the surgeon removes skin unevenly.
  3. Nerve Damage
    • Accidental cutting or stretching of nerves can lead to numbness, tingling, or permanent loss of function.
  4. Excessive Bleeding or Hematomas
    • Caused by inadequate control of blood vessels during surgery, leading to dangerous blood pooling under the skin.

While some of these risks are inherent to surgery, others occur solely due to medical malpractice.

What Constitutes Arm Lift Malpractice in Turkey?

Under Turkish law, medical malpractice happens when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care, causing harm to the patient.

Examples of malpractice specific to arm lift procedures include:

  • Performing surgery without proper qualifications or training.
  • Failing to conduct a thorough preoperative assessment, ignoring underlying health risks.
  • Using unsterile instruments or operating in unsafe conditions.
  • Neglecting to provide adequate postoperative care or follow-up instructions.
  • Ignoring warning signs of complications such as infections or hematomas.

Steps to Take If You Suspect Arm Lift Malpractice

If you believe you are a victim, time is critical—both for your health and for building a strong legal case.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

  • Visit a qualified doctor or hospital to treat complications.
  • Request detailed medical reports describing your condition, as these will be key evidence.

2. Document Everything

  • Keep medical records, consent forms, photographs, and receipts.
  • Save all communications with your surgeon or clinic.

3. Consult a Medical Malpractice Lawyer

  • Choose a lawyer specialized in medical malpractice in Turkey.
  • They will evaluate your case, explain your rights, and guide you through the legal process.

4. Initiate Legal Action

  • If malpractice is confirmed, your lawyer can file a lawsuit seeking compensation for:
    • Medical expenses (including corrective surgeries).
    • Lost income due to recovery time.
    • Pain, suffering, and emotional distress.

Your Legal Rights in Turkey

Turkish law protects patients against negligent healthcare practices. Here’s what you need to know:

Statute of Limitations

  • In most malpractice cases, you have up to five years from the date of the incident or discovery to file a claim.

Burden of Proof

  • You must show that:
    1. The surgeon owed you a duty of care.
    2. They breached that duty through negligence.
    3. This breach directly caused your harm.

Compensation Available

Victims of arm lift malpractice may claim damages for:

  • Medical costs (past and future).
  • Corrective surgery expenses.
  • Loss of earnings.
  • Emotional trauma and reduced quality of life.

Challenges in Arm Lift Malpractice Cases

Pursuing a malpractice claim can be complex, especially for international patients. Common challenges include:

  • Proving negligence with medical evidence.
  • Language barriers when dealing with Turkish legal and medical documents.
  • Jurisdictional issues if your home country’s laws differ.
  • Contract clauses that may limit court action in favor of arbitration.

Why Work with a Specialized Medical Malpractice Lawyer?

These cases require expertise in both medical knowledge and Turkish legal procedures. A specialized lawyer will:

  • Collaborate with medical experts to strengthen your case.
  • Handle cross-border legal complexities for foreign clients.
  • Negotiate with clinics, surgeons, and insurers for maximum compensation.
  • Represent you in court or arbitration if necessary.

Why Choose Oran Partners?

At Oran Partners, we are Turkey’s only law firm exclusively dedicated to medical malpractice cases.

Our Advantages

  • Specialized Expertise – Deep understanding of cosmetic surgery malpractice.
  • International Client Focus – We work with patients from around the world.
  • Proven Track Record – Successful settlements and verdicts for cosmetic surgery victims.
  • Clear Communication – We ensure you understand every step of your case.

Our Legal Process

  1. Case Review & Consultation – Free initial evaluation of your situation.
  2. Evidence Collection – Gathering medical reports, expert opinions, and documentation.
  3. Filing Complaints & Lawsuits – Initiating proceedings against the responsible parties.
  4. Negotiation & Litigation – Pursuing compensation through settlements or trials.
  5. Resolution – Ensuring you receive the justice and financial relief you deserve.

Conclusion – Protect Your Rights

Arm lift malpractice can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. But with the right legal support, you can hold negligent practitioners accountable and secure the compensation you need for recovery.

If you’ve experienced arm lift malpractice in Turkey, don’t delay—the sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.