Even though dogs can be a person’s best friend, they also can be unpredictable and downright aggressive. In fact, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, dogs bite approximately 4.5 million Americans every year. Roughly 20% of bite victims require immediate medical attention.

If a dog attacks you, it is imperative for you to visit the emergency room. After all, dog bites can cause deep tissue wounds, broken bones, nerve damage and other potentially catastrophic injuries. Sadly, when your injuries heal, you might have to deal with unsightly scarring for the rest of your life.

Cosmetic surgery

It is not uncommon for emergency room doctors to consult with cosmetic surgeons when they are repairing bite wounds. If your doctor failed to do so, it might make sense to see a plastic surgeon during your recovery. Indeed, these surgeons often have many options for reducing visible scars or even removing them entirely.

Your physical health

Even though you might think of scars as only skin-deep, the opposite can be true. That is, it is not uncommon for individuals with scars to have physical restrictions. For example, your scar may make it difficult to move your arm or leg or even to smile. If you want to be able to work and enjoy your hobbies, a plastic surgeon might be able to help.

Your emotional well-being

Even if you think your scar will not bother you, it can be difficult to predict the future. Remember, if your scar is in a visible place, it can cause others to treat you differently. This, of course, can damage your emotional well-being. Even worse, it is not exactly rare for those with scars to develop body-image issues and other psychological impairments.

Ultimately, even though consulting with a plastic surgeon is likely to be expensive, you might have grounds to pursue substantial financial compensation from the dog’s owner or handler.