The Risks of Aesthetic Surgery: What You Need to Know

Aesthetic surgery is a popular choice for many people looking to improve their appearance or correct a physical issue. Learn about the potential risks associated with aesthetic surgery including those related to anesthesia, infection, blood loss, and nerve damage.

The Risks of Aesthetic Surgery: What You Need to Know

Aesthetic surgery is a popular choice for many people looking to improve their appearance or correct a physical issue. However, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with any type of surgery. In this article, we will discuss the potential risks of aesthetic surgery, including those related to anesthesia, infection, blood loss, and nerve damage. We will also discuss how to reduce the risk of complications and ensure a successful outcome.

When considering aesthetic surgery, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with anesthesia. Complications such as pneumonia, blood clots, and even death can occur. It is also important to be wary of offers that seem too good to be true; some people travel abroad for cheaper plastic surgery, but this can increase the risk of complications. Additionally, taking a long flight soon after surgery can increase the risk of blood clots forming. Hematoma is a risk in almost every type of surgery.

This occurs when blood pools under the skin and may require additional surgery and anesthesia to drain it. Blood loss is expected during any type of surgery, but uncontrolled blood loss can cause a drop in blood pressure with potentially life-threatening results. Infection is also a common complication of plastic surgery; for example, infections occur in between 1.1 and 2.5 percent of people who undergo breast augmentation. Nerve damage is another potential risk associated with aesthetic surgery. Numbness and tingling are common after plastic surgery and may be signs of nerve damage.

In some cases, this damage can be permanent; for example, 15 percent of women experience permanent changes in nipple sensitivity after breast augmentation surgery. Hypertrophic scarring is an abnormally red and thick scar that sticks out and occurs in 1.0 to 3.7 percent of tummy tucks. General anesthesia can sometimes lead to complications such as lung infections, strokes, heart attacks, and death. Awareness of anesthesia or waking up during surgery is very rare but possible. The best way to reduce the risk of complications from aesthetic surgery is to work with a highly qualified surgeon. It is also important to be aware of the potential side effects such as discomfort, bruising, and swelling.

Finally, it is important to have realistic expectations about the outcome; if expectations are too high, patients may be disappointed with the results. Aesthetic surgery can be a great way to improve one's appearance or correct a physical issue. However, it is important to understand the risks associated with any type of surgery before making a decision. By working with a qualified surgeon and having realistic expectations about the outcome, patients can reduce their risk of complications and ensure a successful outcome.