Singer Burns sues plastic surgeon

Burns said he was housebound following the procedure

Dead or Alive singer Pete Burns is suing a plastic surgeon over lip injections that he claims left him "physically repulsive" and "suicidal".

The 47-year-old says side-effects included swelling, blisters and an inability to eat, drink or speak.

Doctors have warned his lips may need to be amputated, the performer said.

The pop star's lawyers have issued High Court proceedings against Dr Maurizio Viel, alleging negligence. The BBC was unable to reach Dr Viel for comment.

According to papers lodged at the High Court, Burns began seeing the doctor at his London clinic in November 2000.

The writ alleges that he was given an "excessive number" of injections and was not warned about the possible side-effects.

"What happened to me after a series of injections was far worse than any nightmare I could have envisioned," said Mr Burns.

"Not only was it agonisingly painful but it was physically repulsive."

The singer said he did not leave his house for seven months because his face was "distorted with swelling" following the injections.

He eventually travelled to Italy for corrective treatment, which lasted for 17 months.

"As a result of the damage caused by the treatment, Pete has been unable to fully pursue his career in music and in the media," said his solicitor, Auriana Griffiths.