Whatever your reasons are, if you’re considering plastic surgery, it is imperative that you discuss the risks with your surgeon before going under the knife. Make sure you have the opportunity to ask all of your questions and that you are fully aware of any potential complications before your surgery.
Although the chances of complications from plastic surgery are slim, any surgery involves an element of risk. The anesthesia administered to patients can come with its own set of risks, including blood clots, pneumonia and (very rarely) death. You should be in relatively good health before undergoing any kind of cosmetic procedure, so make sure you take the time to have an in-depth conversation with your surgeon so you can evaluate your risk and do everything you can to prepare for and recover from the surgery. Here are some of the risks you should be aware of:
- Nerve damage: Nerve damage, though rare, is a risk of many surgical procedures, ranging from a slight tingling or numbness following the surgery to total loss of feeling in the surgical area.
- Hematoma: A hematoma is a large pocket of blood that resembles a bruise. It is a relatively common complication of cosmetic procedures, occurring in one to six percent of breast augmentation procedures. It is the most common complication associated with facelifts.
- Infection: Infection at the surgical site is a risk of any surgery, and although postoperative procedures are designed to reduce the risk of infection, it is always a risk.
- Scarring: There is usually some amount of scarring with any surgery. The scar may fade over time to be nearly invisible, or it may linger, depending on the severity of the surgery. Breast augmentation carries a 2-5 percent risk of hypertrophic scarring, which is a red and thick raised scar.
- Blood clot: Although blood clots are very rare, they can also be very deadly if they break off and travel to the lungs or brain.
- Blood loss: Some amount of blood loss is expected with any surgery, but a complication involving uncontrollable blood loss or internal bleeding post-op could be deadly.
- Organ damage: Although uncommon if you go with an experienced surgeon, certain procedures can be traumatic for internal organs. Liposuction can put stress on organs and surgical tools could cause perforations or punctures.
- Disappointing results: Although less severe than any of the other complications, there is always the chance that, after investing a lot of money into your surgery, you will come away dissatisfied with your appearance.
The most important thing when undergoing plastic surgery is to have realistic expectations. Make sure you review the credentials of your surgeon and the facility where you will be having the surgery, and bring up any questions or concerns well in advance.
