The importance of informed consent

The recent and highly publicised case of the unsuccessful fat freezing procedure undergone by model Linda Evangelista has generated a great deal of attention within the profession and in the general media. Media sources have outlined several facts surrounding the case, including the lack of informed consent and the financial claim the patient is pursuing through litigation. It is beyond the scope of this editorial to make any judgement or criticism or draw any conclusion about the circumstances leading to the ongoing litigation. However, the relevant claims seem to stem from Evangelista undergoing a fat freezing procedure without being consented appropriately.

Fat freezing is a minimally invasive procedure and an alternative to more aggressive fat removal procedures, such as liposuction. Complications related to fat freezing techniques include minor, localised and reversible complications, such as erythema, pain and oedema. More serious complications involve paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH), which is an unwanted tissue hypertrophy.