Cosmetic surgery, like any type of surgery, is not without risks. Plastic surgery procedures can result in complications ranging from an unattractive or unnatural final result to scarring or even death. Many people mistakenly assume that elective procedures, such as cosmetic surgery, aren’t as serious as other types of surgery. But all surgeries, even simple dental procedures, present the possibility of serious complications. In addition to the general risks of surgery, there’s always the possibility of issues arising due to anesthesia.
In some cases, nerves may be damaged or severed during any surgical procedure. The result is more obvious, however, if it is a facial nerve. When those nerves are injured, the outcome can be the inability to make facial expressions or drooping of the eyes or mouth. A blood clot is a common risk of many procedures, not just cosmetic surgeries. The most common type is a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a clot that develops in the leg. Most DVTs require medical attention but are not life-threatening unless the clot begins to move through the veins toward the heart and lungs. A clot that moves to the lungs is a medical emergency and must be treated immediately.
With any surgery, the patient has the ability to reduce the risk of complications. The best way to reduce the risk of a bad outcome is to choose a board-certified surgeon who performs the procedure frequently. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, are extremely important before surgery, as non-smokers heal faster and have less scarring. Some plastic surgeons will not perform surgery on current smokers because the final outcome may not be as good. In addition, eating a healthy diet before and after the procedure can speed healing and improve wound closure, which also minimizes scarring.
