Surgeon on trial for removing too much breast tissue

A plastic surgeon who allegedly removed too much breast tissue in a reduction surgery nearly nine years ago will go on trial this week in Madison County.

Carrie Zang of Witt, Ill. filed suit against R. Craig McKee, M.D. in 2001, alleging McKee violated the standard of care while performing a bilateral reduction mammoplasty with free nipple graft operation on Nov. 22, 1999 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville.

According to Zang, 41, McKee ignored her directive and desire that she be left with average size breasts that would complement her frame when he proceeded to remove 2,553 grams from her right breast and 2,957 grams from her left breast.

There are 454 grams per pound.

Zang claims that prior to surgery, McKee submitted a pre-operative plan in which he stated he would be removing 1,000 grams of breast tissue from each breast.

She also alleges McKee failed to leave an appropriate amount of tissue necessary for a nipple graft causing one of her nipples to fail and "fall off her chest," her complaint states.

Zang further alleges McKee severed a nerve and failed to properly close the surgical sites due to the lack of tissue needed to do so.

At trial, Zang will allege the surgery left her permanently and irreversibly disfigured. She will claim pain and discomfort, nerve damage, medical expenses, lost wages and psychological damage.

She is represented by Bob Perica of Wood River and will seek damages in excess of $50,000, plus costs.

Ransom Wuller of Belleville will represent McKee in the case.

Circuit Judge Andy Matoesian will preside over the trial that is expected to last a week.

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