Eyelid scarring, disfigurement alleged in medical malpractice claim

GRETNA – A patient who claims her eyelid was scarred and disfigured during surgery is suing claiming medical malpractice.

Fawn Ukpolo Ph.D. filed suit against Ochsner Clinic Foundation and Richard Hesse M.D. in the 24th Judicial District Court on April 14.

Ukpolo contends she was diagnosed with with two eye conditions, exophthalmos and lagophthalmos, which make her eyes bulge and unable to properly close her eyelids. The plaintiff asserts she underwent surgery conducted by Hesse to treat her medical conditions. However, Ukpolo claims during the surgery her left eyelid was punctured causing scarring and deformity in the area and limiting her ability to open and close her eyelid and normal functioning and has also led to irritation, blurry vision, double vision, pain and hypersensitivity.

The plaintiff claims the resulting condition has left her eye vulnerable to further damage.

The defendant is accused of medical malpractice, failing to use proper surgical techniques, failing to advise of the risks, failing to properly address the surgical injury and failing to timely advise of the error.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for pain and suffering, additional surgical procedures, scarring, disfigurement, permanent disability, loss of enjoyment of life and medical expenses.

Ukpolo is represented by attorney M. Suzanne Montero of New Orleans.

The case has been assigned to Division M Judge Henry G. Sullivan Jr.

Case no. 748-664.