Cosmetic plastic surgery ranks among the top surgical procedures performed in the medical field today. Although complications are rare and procedures are considered generally safe when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, there are still existing risks.
How do we minimize the risks of cosmetic plastic surgery?
The following are some useful guidelines:
- Approach cosmetic surgery as a serious medical procedure.
- Make sure you fully understand the procedure/s you are considering.
- Don’t be one of the first to try out a new technology
- Choose your plastic surgeon well.
- Don’t be tempted by a low price tag.
- Check the surgical facility and support staff.
- Discuss your expectations and concerns with your plastic surgeon.
- Make sure you are physically fit to have the surgery.
- Tell your surgeon about any past and present medical conditions.
- Diligently follow your surgeon’s instructions before surgery.
- Diligently follow your surgeon’s instructions after surgery.
- Avoid strenuous activity for several weeks after surgery.
- Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience any post-operative complications.
There are a variety of post-operative complications and expected side effects in cosmetic surgery procedures. Most of them are temporary and can be easily treated when discovered early. Cosmetic surgery is not an exact science and the body does not always react in predictable ways. Thus, while serious complications in cosmetic plastic surgery are uncommon when performed by qualified and experienced plastic surgeons, they do occur from time to time, even with the most careful surgeons under the strictest conditions. Those with the least risk of complications are patients who are relatively young, in excellent health, and who strictly adhere to pre- and post-operative instructions.