Mark Feehily from Westlife is suing bariatric surgeon Nick Carter over weight-loss surgery complications that have severely impacted his health and career. The 46-year-old musician claims a sleeve gastrectomy performed at Spire Portsmouth Hospital in August 2020 left behind infected tissue, causing recurring sepsis and necessitating further major operations. Feehily has been absent from touring for two years as a result of the ongoing complications.

The High Court claim, valued at over £200,000, alleges that the surgeon failed to remove sufficient stomach tissue during the procedure, leading to a dangerous leak. Feehily required emergency surgery during the Covid-19 pandemic and ultimately had his entire stomach removed in May 2023 following months in intensive care. The surgeon denies negligence, arguing that tissue retention and leakage are recognised complications occurring in approximately 1 per cent of cases, and maintains this does not constitute negligence. A preliminary trial is scheduled for May to July 2026, with witness statements and expert reports expected beforehand.