Possible Complications of Plastic Surgery

Cosmetic Surgery in Charleston, SC

Surgery of any kind carries some risks. In addition, there may be some risks specific to the type of procedure you are considering. Serious complications of plastic surgery are extremely rare, but understanding possible risks is an important part of preparing for your procedure.

Nausea, Vomiting, and Pain

Some patients experience nausea and vomiting in association with anesthesia. We use IV anesthesia to further reduce this risk. If necessary, we will give you postoperative medication to control nausea and vomiting.

Pain is subjective, but we will provide you with appropriate pain medication to reduce any discomfort during surgery or the recovery period.

Bleeding or Fluid Accumulation

Excessive bleeding or fluid accumulation is a rare complication that can cause swelling, bruising and pain. Sometimes, follow-up surgery is required to stop bleeding and remove accumulated blood or fluid, called a hematoma or seroma. To reduce your risk of bleeding, follow all of my preoperative instructions. We will discuss medications that you should avoid prior to your procedure.

Infection

Infection is another rare complication following plastic surgery, but it is a potentially dangerous complication. You may be prescribed with antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection. However, it is not possible to completely eliminate the risk of infection. Be wary of the signs of infection, including fever, chills, skin redness, warmth, or new (especially discolored) drainage. If you notice any of these signs, please call us right away.

Tissue Death

Tissue death is a complication that occurs when there is not adequate blood circulation to operated areas. If you are a smoker or use other nicotine products, you are at an elevated risk for this complication. We ask you to quit smoking for at least four weeks before and after your surgery. Tissue death can also be caused by poor tissue health, excessively scarred tissue, excess fatty tissue, or undue tension on the wound.

Revision Surgery

Revision surgery is necessary whenever a procedure gives undesirable or unexpected results. This is rare, but more common for some procedures than others. During your consultation, we will discuss whether your surgery is likely to need a follow-up surgery or "touch-up" procedure. Also, remember that scarring and bruising may conceal your final results until healing is complete. Depending on the procedure, this may take many months or a year or more. We will help you understand the healing process and when you can expect to see your final results.

Excessive Scarring

Scar formation is a normal part of healing, but some people are more likely to have unfavorable scarring than others. Be sure to tell me if you have a personal or family history of excessive scarring. The amount of melanin (color) in your skin may influence your scarring. Dr. Widenhouse will give you detailed post-operative instructions for improving the appearance of your scars.

Blood Clots

Blood clots are a rare but potentially fatal complication of surgery. If the blood clot migrates to the pulmonary system, it can result in a pulmonary embolism. You are at a greater risk for this complication if you:

• Are obese
• Are a smoker
• Are undergoing a long procedure
• Have a history of blood clots or have a genetic clotting disorder
• Are taking hormone therapy or oral contraceptives
• Have a history of cancer
• Have undergone recent trauma

Be sure to discuss any of these factors with me during your consultation. We will take all appropriate steps to reduce your risk. This may include wearing compression stockings during or after surgery and anti-clotting medication. You can also help to reduce your risk by keeping hydrated and moving appropriately after surgery. This may include shifting your position often while lying down, flexing your legs and feet, and walking when you feel up to it.

Numbness

Numbness and tingling are caused by stretching or damage to the nerves. It is usually temporary, but permanent numbness or tingling is a surgical risk.

Skin Irregularities

Due to genetics, scarring, or physical limitations of your tissue, there may be skin irregularities after your surgery, including divots, dimples, puckers, or discolorations.

Asymmetry

A small amount of asymmetry after surgery is normal, and can help maintain a natural appearance. After all, none of us is perfectly symmetric before surgery, and identified presurgical asymmetry is an important part of your consultation. However, if asymmetry is moderate or severe, we will discuss revisions surgery.

Changes in Skin Pigmentation

It is possible that your skin will either become lighter or darker as a result of your surgery or nonsurgical procedure. Darker skin is more prone to discoloration and it is best to avoid sun exposure or tanning beds before and after surgery.

Anesthesia Complications

Although rare, anesthesia complications are potentially very dangerous. State-of-the-Art technology and protocols enable us to prevent, recognize, and treat anesthesia reactions, making anesthesia very safe. However, potential complications can include problems with the circulatory system, the nervous system, or the pulmonary system. Rarely, they may result in death. We will make sure you have time to talk to the anesthesiologist about potential complications and have all your questions answered.

Dr. Brian G. Widenhouse provides excellent surgical expertise and the highest standard of patient care. In addition, his staff is all well-trained and experienced in supporting the procedures we perform at Port City Plastic Surgery, including breast surgery, body contouring and facial surgery. We invite you to look at our Before and After Gallery, or to schedule a consultation to learn more.