Westlife singer Mark Feehily had his entire stomach removed in 2023 after complications that he alleges followed a gastric sleeve operation, and is now suing the bariatric surgeon he says is responsible in a High Court medical negligence claim.

The 46‑year‑old alleges that surgeon Nick Carter failed to remove enough of his stomach during a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy at Spire Portsmouth Hospital in Hampshire in August 2020.

According to the claim, the tissue left behind leaked, leading to severe abdominal infections, repeated emergency hospital admissions and recurring sepsis. Court documents state that he ultimately required a total gastrectomy in 2023.

Mr Carter denies negligence, according to reports. The claim has been reported to be worth more than £200,000.

Leigh Day, the law firm acting for Mr Feehily, confirmed that the claim has been issued. Partner Suzanne White said: 'We are representing Westlife lead singer, Mark Feehily in a medical negligence claim at the High Court against laparoscopic, upper gastro-intestinal and bariatric surgeon Mr Nick Carter.'

She added: 'Mark has been dedicated to keeping his fans updated on his health during a period that has been extremely challenging for him, but he has faced it all with his characteristic strength and resilience.'

Mr Feehily will not comment further while proceedings continue.

What Happens Next in Mark Feehily's Gastric Sleeve Case

A preliminary split trial is expected to take place between 28 May and 31 July 2027. It would examine whether Mr Carter was negligent and, if so, whether that alleged negligence caused Mr Feehily's complications.

Any damages would be decided at a later stage. None of the allegations has been tested in court.

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How a Gastric Sleeve Can Lead To Life-Threatening Sepsis

A sleeve gastrectomy typically removes about 80 per cent of the stomach, leaving a narrow tube. The procedure restricts how much a patient can eat and alters hormones linked to appetite. It is one of the most common weight‑loss operations worldwide and serious complications are described as uncommon.

One recognised risk is a leak along the staple line, the cut edge of the remaining stomach. Even a small leak can allow stomach contents to escape into the abdomen, which can cause infection and abscesses. If this is not treated promptly, it can lead to sepsis, where the body's response to infection begins to damage its own tissues and organs.

Patients with a leak may show few obvious symptoms beyond a raised heart rate, while being seriously unwell. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, drainage of infected fluid and, where necessary, further surgery.

In severe or persistent cases, further surgery may be required. Rarely, this can involve removing the remaining stomach as a salvage procedure.

Mr Feehily's claim says this is what happened in his case. These are general medical points, not findings about his treatment.

Mr Feehily stepped back from Westlife's touring plans in 2024, citing ongoing health problems. In a message to fans at the time, he said: 'Your support has kept me going and given me strength when I didn't have any of my own.' He has spoken publicly in the past about his struggles with his weight.

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