The Risks and Benefits of Aesthetic Surgery

Learn about the potential risks & benefits associated with aesthetic surgery & how to minimize them.

The Risks and Benefits of Aesthetic Surgery

Any surgery can result in bruises and bruises, the formation of seromas, nerve damage that causes sensory or motor losses, infections, scarring, blood loss, and complications of anesthesia. More serious complications, such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, can cause death. All surgeries, including cosmetic procedures, carry risks. If your body mass index is 30 or higher (obese) or you have diabetes, you could be at greater risk of developing complications, such as blood clots in your legs or lungs.

Smoking also increases risks and interferes with healing. You will meet with your surgeon to discuss these risks and others related to your medical history. You will be informed about specific procedures, what to expect, the benefits, risks and possible complications, as well as other alternatives. The doctor may recommend additional procedures to improve the overall outcome.

By listening to and following the instructions of the surgeon and the health care team, you can minimize the risks and complications of surgery.

Plastic surgery

has been a relatively safe procedure compared to other surgeries. The National Cancer Institute reports that deaths due to plastic surgery occur in approximately one in 10,000 procedures. Some of the major risks include infections, excessive bleeding, and complications with other surgical procedures.

Beware of plastic surgery offers that are too good to be true. Some people travel out of the country to have plastic surgery at cheaper rates. However, this may increase some of the risk. Taking a long flight soon after surgery may increase the risk of blood clots.

There are inherent risks associated with any surgical procedure. These include the risk of bleeding, blood clots, or infections. Patients also have to deal with the side effects of surgery, which often include discomfort, bruising, and swelling. The best step you can take to reduce your risk of complications is to work with a highly qualified plastic surgeon.

Statistics show that more and more Americans are turning to aesthetic surgery for both aesthetic and functional goals. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), more than 150,000 plastic surgery procedures are performed daily. Many people are afraid of enduring pain or living with scars after the procedure.