Unveiling the Risks and Complications: A Guide to Common Plastic Surgery Procedures

The world of plastic surgery offers a multitude of procedures to enhance appearance, restore function, and boost confidence. However, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and complications associated with any surgery before making an informed decision. This comprehensive guide explores the risks and complications of various plastic surgery procedures, empowering you to approach your consultation with a clear understanding.

Breast Procedures

• Breast Lump Removal: While a relatively straightforward procedure, potential risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, and nerve damage. In addition, further procedures may be required based on the type of lump.
• Breast Reduction: Risks associated with breast reduction include bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry (uneven breast size). Difficulty breastfeeding after surgery is a possibility to discuss with your surgeon.
• Breast Lift: Potential complications of a breast lift include bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and the need for revision surgery if the desired outcome isn’t achieved.
• Breast Implants: Rupture or deflation of implants, capsular contracture (scar tissue forming around the implant), changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry are potential complications. Regular mammograms are still necessary after breast augmentation.

Other Procedures

• Gynecomastia Surgery: Bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and asymmetry are potential risks. In rare cases, there might be a recurrence of breast tissue enlargement.
• Liposuction/Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): Bleeding, infection, scarring, fluid accumulation, nerve damage, and asymmetry are potential complications. Another concern associated with liposuction is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot that can go to the lungs.
• Rhinoplasty: Bleeding, infection, difficulty breathing, changes in nasal function or sensation, and the need for revision surgery are potential risks.
• Hemorrhoidectomy/Anal Fissure Repair/Anal Fistula Surgery: Bleeding, infection, pain, difficulty with bowel control, and recurrence are potential complications.
• Burn/Burn Contracture Surgery: Infection, scarring, limited range of motion in the affected area, and the need for additional surgeries are potential risks.
• Female Genital Surgeries: Bleeding, infection, pain, discomfort during intercourse, and difficulty achieving orgasm are potential complications. The long-term effects on childbirth are also a consideration to discuss with your surgeon.

Important Considerations: Minimizing Risks

• Choosing a Board-Certified Surgeon: Opting for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in your chosen procedure minimizes risks.
• Open Communication with Your Doctor: Discussing your medical history, medications, and desired outcomes openly with your surgeon is crucial.
• Realistic Expectations: Setting realistic expectations about the procedure, recovery process, and potential outcomes is essential.
• Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and following pre-operative instructions can significantly reduce risks.