Breast surgeon Ian Paterson did not seek specific consent for cleavage sparing mastectomies, claiming it was merely an “adaptation” of the standard procedure. He testified at an inquest that he had modified the traditional mastectomy to leave more fatty tissue, improving appearance. Paterson described it as a limited, intraoperative change for cosmetic purposes, rather than a separate procedure requiring separate consent. The testimony was given at the inquest into the death of Elaine Turbill at Birmingham and Solihull Coroner’s Court. Paterson’s actions have raised questions about his practice and ethics as a surgeon.
Source link