Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery is a medical discipline that encompasses procedures designed to reconstruct or improve the body’s appearance. Reconstructive plastic surgery restores the physical and moral integrity of a traumatized person, while cosmetic surgery is aimed at those who wish to enhance their physical appearance.
Why have plastic, reconstructive or cosmetic surgery?
Reconstructive plastic surgery rebuilds the body damaged by congenital malformation, accident or surgery. It also aims to restore the appearance of the body and face to help a person rebuild physically and mentally after a trauma. It can also be used to correct malformations such as cleft lips in children or oversized breasts.
Aesthetic plastic surgery aims to restore self-esteem by modifying a person’s physical appearance. There are many reasons for undergoing cosmetic plastic surgery, such as slimming down the figure, liposuction of the abdomen or legs, nose correction (rhinoplasty), facelifts, intimate surgery and more.
How to choose a plastic surgeon
The choice of a plastic surgeon is crucial to guarantee a successful operation. It is important to consider the advice of a health or beauty professional when choosing the right practitioner. The plastic surgeon must be recognized by the Order of Physicians and must inspire confidence in the person about to be transformed by his or her care. He must also be honest about his patient’s requests and transparent about the fees charged for cosmetic procedures.
The risks of cosmetic surgery
Cosmetic surgery is a medical procedure designed to improve a person’s physical appearance. Although this practice is becoming increasingly common, it is not without risk. In this article, we explore the risks associated with cosmetic surgery and how patients can minimize these risks.
Understanding the risks of reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery
Reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery involves a number of risks for patients. The most common risks include:
Infection
Infection is a major risk associated with any surgical procedure. Patients undergoing cosmetic surgery may be exposed to bacteria and viruses in the hospital environment. To minimize the risk of infection, patients should follow the surgeon’s instructions regarding post-operative care.
Anesthesia-related complications
General anesthesia, which is commonly used during cosmetic surgery, can cause complications in some patients. Patients should inform their surgeon of any medical history or drug allergies to minimize the risk of an adverse reaction.
Haematomas and bruises
Hematomas and bruises are common side effects of cosmetic surgery. These conditions are generally benign but can take time to heal.
Scars
All cosmetic surgeries leave scars. Although scars generally fade over time, they can be permanent and have an impact on a person’s physical appearance.
How to minimize the risks of cosmetic surgery
While cosmetic surgery carries risks, there are steps patients can take to minimize those risks. Preventive measures include:
Do your research
Patients should research their surgeon and clinic prior to surgery. Patients should also ensure that their surgeon is qualified and uses high-quality facilities to minimize the risk of complications.
Discuss medical history
Patients should inform their surgeon of any medical history or drug allergies to minimize the risk of an adverse reaction to anesthesia or other medications.
Follow post-operative instructions
Patients should follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions to minimize the risk of infection and complications.
Stop smoking
Patients should stop smoking before surgery to minimize the risk of post-operative complications.
Specific risks associated with each operation
Every aesthetic surgical procedure carries its own specific risks. Here are a few examples of risks associated with some common procedures:
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty can cause infection, prolonged pain, skin discoloration and nasal asymmetry.
Breast augmentation
Breast augmentation can cause chest pain, infection, breast implant rupture, healing problems and breast asymmetry.
Liposuction
Liposuction can cause bruising, bleeding, infection, prolonged pain and loss of sensation.
Face lift
Facelifts can cause loss of facial sensation, infection, prolonged pain, visible scarring and unsatisfactory results.
Cosmetic surgery entails risks for patients. However, by taking appropriate preventive measures and choosing a qualified surgeon, patients can minimize these risks. Before undergoing cosmetic surgery, patients should discuss all potential risks and benefits with their surgeon.