As a plastic surgeon with years of experience, I have seen firsthand the risks and complications that can arise from plastic surgery procedures. While these procedures can greatly improve a person's appearance and self-confidence, it's important to understand that they are not without risks. In fact, some plastic surgeries have a higher rate of complications than others. In this article, I will discuss the most complicated plastic surgeries and the potential risks and complications associated with them.
Hematoma: A Risk in Nearly All Surgeries
One of the most common risks in any surgery is hematoma, which is a collection of blood outside of a blood vessel.This can occur in nearly all surgeries, including plastic surgery. In some cases, treatment may require additional operations to drain the blood, which can lead to more time in the operating room and additional anesthesia. While some blood loss is expected during surgery, uncontrolled blood loss can result in a drop in blood pressure and potentially fatal consequences.
Infection: A Common Complication
Despite measures taken to reduce the risk of infection, it remains one of the most common complications of plastic surgery. For example, infections occur in 1.1 to 2.5 percent of people who undergo breast augmentation.These infections can range from mild skin infections to more serious internal infections that require intravenous antibiotics.
Nerve Damage: A Potential Risk
Another potential complication of plastic surgery is Nerve Damage. This risk is present in many different types of surgical procedures and can result in numbness or tingling sensations. While nerve damage is often temporary, it can also be permanent in some cases. For example, 15 percent of women experience permanent changes in nipple sensitivity after breast augmentation surgery.Scarring: A Common Concern
Scarring is another common concern for those considering plastic surgery.Hypertrophic scarring, which is an abnormally red and thick bulging scar, occurs in 1.0 to 3.7 percent of tummy tucks. Along with smooth and hard keloid scars, it is one of the most common types of scarring after plastic surgery.
General Anesthesia: Potential Complications
General anesthesia is used in most plastic surgeries and can sometimes lead to complications. These can include lung infections, strokes, heart attacks, and even death. While rare, there is also a small chance of waking up during surgery.According to research, tummy tucks have a higher rate of serious complications compared to other types of cosmetic surgery.
Tummy Tucks: Surprisingly High Rate of Complications
While liposuction is often considered a simple and common plastic surgery procedure, it actually has a higher rate of complications than many people realize. In fact, tummy tucks have been found to cause more serious complications than other types of cosmetic surgery. These complications can include pain, surgical site infections, and wound healing problems that require extended care or repeated visits to the doctor.The Trend Towards Minimally Invasive Surgeries
In recent years, there has been a trend towards minimally invasive plastic surgeries and techniques. This can be seen in the statistics from the American Association of Plastic Surgeons.While these procedures may have a lower risk of complications, it's important to remember that all surgeries carry some level of risk.
The Importance of Choosing a Skilled Surgeon
One factor that can greatly impact the risk and success of a plastic surgery procedure is the skill and experience of the surgeon. Facial reconstructive surgeries, for example, involve complex and delicate techniques that require a high level of skill. It's important to thoroughly research and choose a qualified and experienced surgeon for any plastic surgery procedure.The Different Types of Plastic Surgery
There are many different types of plastic surgery, each with its own set of risks and potential complications. The most common procedures include tummy tucks and breast augmentation.While some people undergo plastic surgery for purely cosmetic reasons, others may do so to improve certain body functions or address both cosmetic and functional concerns.
The Importance of Understanding the Risks
While plastic surgery can greatly improve a person's appearance and self-confidence, it's important to understand the potential risks and complications associated with each procedure. As a plastic surgeon, I always make sure my patients are fully informed about the risks before undergoing any surgery. By understanding these risks, patients can make an informed decision about whether or not plastic surgery is right for them.In Conclusion
In conclusion, while plastic surgery can have many benefits, it's important to remember that it is not without risks. Some procedures have a higher rate of complications than others, and it's important to thoroughly research and choose a skilled surgeon for any procedure.By understanding the potential risks and complications, patients can make an informed decision about whether or not plastic surgery is right for them.
