Surgery Risks and Complications

Every surgical procedure carries a level of inherent risk, and specific risks can vary depending on the type of surgery. General risks associated with surgery may include:

Scarring – Scarring is a natural part of the body’s healing process following surgery. The appearance and severity of scars can differ widely based on factors such as skin type, genetics, and incision size and location. In some cases, hypertrophic or keloid scars may develop. Should undesirable scarring occur, potential treatments can be explored with your surgeon’s guidance.

Infection – Infection is a potential complication of all surgical procedures, including plastic surgery. It occurs when harmful bacteria enter the surgical site, resulting in symptoms like redness, increased pain, pus formation, and slow wound healing. While stringent sterilization protocols are followed by your surgeon to minimize this risk, it’s crucial for patients to diligently adhere to post-operative care instructions. Timely detection and antibiotic treatment are essential for managing and resolving infections.

Pain – Pain is a common side effect following surgery. The intensity and duration of pain can vary depending on the procedure and individual pain tolerance. While some discomfort is expected, severe or prolonged pain may indicate a complication and should be promptly addressed. Your surgeon will provide guidance on pain management, which may involve prescribed pain relievers and recommendations for rest and recovery.

Bleeding – Both external and internal bleeding can occur as a result of surgical procedures. External bleeding is typically visible at the surgical site, while internal bleeding (hematoma) may present as pain, pressure, or swelling in the affected area. If you observe unusual post-operative swelling or bleeding, seeking immediate medical attention is essential.

Seroma – A seroma is the accumulation of clear lymph fluid beneath the skin following surgery. It may develop when surgery disrupts lymph vessels, resulting in fluid buildup. Symptoms include increased pain, pressure sensation, and clear fluid drainage from the surgical site. Although seromas are generally minor complications, they might necessitate drainage or additional treatments to facilitate proper healing.

Anesthetic Complications – While anesthesia is administered for pain management, it carries inherent risks. Potential complications encompass allergic reactions, intubation-related trauma, malignant hyperthermia, and issues with blood pressure or respiration. Continuous monitoring during surgery enables your surgeon to promptly detect and manage such complications.

Undesirable Cosmetic Outcomes – Despite advanced techniques and the expertise of qualified surgeons, the potential for undesirable cosmetic results always exists in plastic surgery. This could manifest as asymmetry, skin puckering, or results that don’t align with a patient’s expectations. Realistic expectations and thorough discussions about potential outcomes during consultations are crucial. Revision surgery may occasionally address undesirable results, but it is not guaranteed.

Nerve Damage – Nerve damage, although rare, is a potential plastic surgery complication. It may result from tissue manipulation or inadvertent nerve injury during the procedure. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the affected area. In most cases, nerve function gradually returns over weeks to months, but rare instances may result in permanent changes. Promptly reporting any unusual sensations post-surgery is essential.

Bruising and Swelling – After surgery, it’s common to experience some degree of bruising and swelling as part of the healing process. While this is a normal aspect of recovery, excessive or prolonged bruising and swelling should be monitored. Adhering to post-operative care instructions, such as elevating the affected area and applying cold compresses, is vital. If unusually prolonged swelling or deep, dark bruising occurs, contacting us for evaluation is important.

Risk of Serious Complications – Though exceedingly rare, there is always an inherent risk associated with any surgical procedure, including the potential for severe complications or, in the most extreme cases, death. This risk may be related to complications, adverse reactions to anesthesia, or underlying health conditions. Your surgeon and their team prioritize patient safety, conducting thorough pre-operative screenings and employing state-of-the-art surgical techniques and protocols. Openly discussing your complete medical history during consultations and adhering closely to pre-operative and post-operative guidelines are critical steps in mitigating these risks.