According to the annual plastic surgery statistics, on 2015, there has been a 2% increase in surgical and minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. For patients age 55 and older, Eyelid Surgery is the most common cosmetic surgical procedure performed, same with those between 40 and 54, followed by Liposuction.
Without a doubt, more and more baby boomers are seeking for age-defying treatments and repair. If you are thinking of getting a plastic surgery, you should know that it comes with a lot of risks and complications. That’s why tedious research and serious brainstorming is a must before you go under the knife.
Here are 6 common risks or complications that you should be aware of:
1. Dissatisfaction or Poor Outcome
A poor cosmetic outcome is the greatest fear for someone who undergoes a plastic surgery, obviously. Nothing is worse than getting a result that will make one’s appearance worse.
2. Anesthesia Complications
Anesthesia-related complications are the leading cause of death in cosmetic surgery procedures, although the chances are really slim. This where pre-operative assessment comes in, to make sure that your health is capable of enduring the anesthesia and the procedure.
3. Bleeding
Bleeding is common in any type of surgical procedure but when it becomes excessive, immediate attention is needed. For some, severe bleeding can also exist during the procedure where blood transfusion is required.
4. Nerve Damage
There are so many nerves in the body and damaging these nerves is possible in any type of surgical procedure. It can vary from slight nerve damage that can cause a change in sensitivity or severe that can result to permanent loss of function. In procedures done in the facial area, nerve damage can cause the inability to make facial expressions.
5. Hematoma
This is the collection of blood outside of a blood vessel that can appear as a large bruise or swelling. For major cases, the surgeon may need to drain the collected blood through another operation.
6. Scars
This is a common post-op result but is a natural part of the healing process. Naturally, it will just resolve as flat but for some, it can be raised, thickened and dark in color. If you have scarring issues from the past (Keloids, Hypertrophic scars), inform your surgeon before undergoing the treatment. If you are a smoker, then you are at risk for poor scarring.
