|
Introduction to the Risks
of Plastic Surgery
Bleeding and Hematoma
Infection
Seroma
Suture Reactions
Skin Reactions
Wound Separation
Necrosis
Nerve Damage
Anesthesia
Scarring
Necrosis
Tissues need oxygen and nutrients to stay healthy.
If oxygen is not getting to the tissues in a high enough
concentration, the tissues may turn blue or purple and
become ischemic (meaning lacking oxygen). If the tissues
are significantly lacking oxygen for a long enough period
of time, necrosis (tissue death) may occur.
In many cases, necrosis is not a concern, but in some
surgeries where the blood supply is interrupted, the
risk of circulation problems increases. Examples of
these higher risk surgeries include facelifts, tummy
tucks, and breast reductions, during which flaps are
created separating the skin and its blood supply from
underlying structures.
Usually, there is enough alternate circulation to supply
the tissue with nutrients. However, the risk of necrosis
increases with significant swelling, in surgeries where
large flaps were created, and especially in smokers.
Naturally, smokers have a higher incidence of necrosis
due to blood vessel constriction and a decreased oxygen
supply.
Signs of necrosis are a blue, purple, or gray cast
to the skin (not to be confused with the blue and purple
from a bruise). Pain may also be a sign of necrosis,
and may be the only sign if the tissue death is deep.
In its later stages, the tissue will turn gray or black,
and may smell or become infected.
Treatments for ischemia and necrosis should begin at
its earliest stages. Possible therapies may include
releasing the sutures to relieve compression from swelling,
hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or if minor, the tissue will
be allowed to slough and then heal in on its own.
Nerve Damage
Nerve damage can occur simply from injection of anesthesia
or from the actual surgery itself. If nerve damage occurs,
you may notice numbness, tingling, or changes in sensation.
Damage to nerves that control muscles may cause weakness
or paralysis of the affected muscle. Usually, any nerve
damage is temporary and sensation will return to normal
within 6 months to a year, although sometimes it can
take 2 to 3 years for complete regeneration.
As the nerve re-grows, you may notice itching, shooting
pains, or electrical shock sensations. This is considered
normal, and can sometimes be controlled with aspirin
or nerve medications.
If the nerve is cut completely, it may never return
to normal and you may suffer permanent numbness or the
inability to move the affected muscle. Reconstructive
surgery to give support to the affected muscle may be
required.
Anesthesia
Please refer to the risks
of anesthesia section for complete details.
Review
Even though sometimes considered frivolous, any cosmetic
or plastic surgery is, in fact, real surgery with real
potential risks and complications.
Be sure to discuss the risks of your particular procedure
with your cosmetic surgeon beforehand. He or she may
be able to provide alternate treatments or offer ways
to minimize your risks.
Fortunately, complications are very rare in healthy,
carefully screened patients that follow pre- and post-operative
guidelines, and your chances of a beautiful result are
excellent.
back to
General Info Topics
|
