The plaintiff, Ana Coretchi, a 30‑year‑old part‑time model from Dublin, attended Dundrum Cosmetic Clinic on 4 July 2020 for a laser hair removal treatment on her thighs. Ms Coretchi had been pursuing modelling work on a part‑time basis and gave evidence that her appearance was central to her career prospects.
Following the procedure, Ms Coretchi experienced immediate pain and discomfort. In the days and weeks that followed, she developed burns, ulceration and discolouration to the treated areas. Medical evidence before the court confirmed that she had suffered first‑degree burns and subsequent hypopigmentation.
After the treatment, Ms Coretchi attended her GP and was later referred to a consultant dermatologist. The medical evidence before the High Court included findings that she had suffered first-degree burns as a result of the laser procedure, together with skin discolouration, ulceration and hypopigmentation.
The court heard evidence that the burns caused damage to nerve endings, resulting in painful sensitivity in the affected areas. It was also reported in court that Ms Coretchi required medical treatment following the incident, including prescribed medication and ongoing dermatological care, as part of her recovery.
Medical witnesses confirmed that the skin damage and sensitivity were visible for a prolonged period, with effects continuing for many months after the procedure.
Ms Coretchi told the court that the injuries had a profound impact on her confidence and self‑esteem. She gave evidence that she ultimately gave up her hopes of pursuing a modelling career due to the visible scarring and the anxiety caused by the incident.
The court accepted that the injuries went beyond a short‑term physical injury and had a lasting effect on her personal and professional life.
Cases involving cosmetic negligence are often misunderstood as minor or purely aesthetic. In reality, they can have a profound and lasting impact on a person’s physical appearance, confidence and mental wellbeing.
The case came before the High Court, where liability was determined in favour of Ms Coretchi. One of the defendants did not contest the proceedings.
Having considered the medical evidence and the impact of the injuries on the plaintiff’s life, the court awarded €80,000 in general damages for pain, suffering and loss of amenity.
This case serves as an important reminder that cosmetic and aesthetic treatments are subject to clear legal standards of care. Where those standards are not met and injury occurs, individuals are entitled to seek redress through the courts.
The High Court accepted that injuries affecting a person’s appearance can have far‑reaching consequences, particularly where confidence, self‑esteem and career prospects are impacted.
For many clients, pursuing a cosmetic negligence claim is not simply about compensation. It is about having the harm they have suffered properly recognised, holding practitioners to account, and helping to drive improvements in standards and accountability so that others are not exposed to the same risks.
Hussey Fraser Solicitors represented Ms Coretchi throughout the proceedings. We acted on her behalf in presenting the medical evidence, outlining the impact of the injuries on her life and advancing her case before the High Court.
This case study relates to High Court proceedings reported in January 2026. Names, dates and factual details are intended to reflect contemporaneous court reporting as accurately as possible.
While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, court proceedings may involve multiple accounts and evolving evidence. Anyone seeking clarification or further information in relation to this case is welcome to contact Lauren Callaly, Solicitor at Hussey Fraser Solicitors, directly.
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