Patient Resources
Risks and Complications
of
Plastic Surgery
At your consultation, your surgeon will discuss in detail the risks and possible complications of your surgery as part of your informed consent process.
Your Surgeon and his experienced team will do everything possible to manage and reduce your risks, but it is important to remember that surgical complications can still occur.
Successful surgery is a partnership between your surgeon and you, and your role is crucial. Please follow all your pre-op and post-operative instructions, rest adequately, and allow your body time to heal.
General Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery
- Pulmonary Embolism – A pulmonary embolism is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs. This risk is associated with prolonged immobility and can be life-threatening. Preventative measures, such as blood-thinning medications and early mobilisation, are taken to reduce this risk.
- Heart Attack – While rare in healthy patients, the risk of a heart attack increases with age and pre-existing cardiac issues. If necessary, your surgeon will refer you to a cardiac specialist for assessment before surgery.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, often in the leg. Prolonged immobility can increase the risk of DVT, and precautions are taken to reduce this risk. Patients with a high BMI or a family history of clotting issues are at higher risk. If a DVT occurs, there is a possibility that a pulmonary embolism could develop if part of the clot moves to the lungs.
- Organ Damage – In surgeries involving the abdomen, such as an abdominoplasty, there is a risk of damage to internal organs, including the intestines. This is a rare but severe complication that may require immediate medical attention.
- Tissue Necrosis – Tissue necrosis, or tissue death, can occur if there is insufficient blood flow to the surgical area. This is a rare but serious complication that may require additional surgery to remove the affected tissue.
- Fat Necrosis – Fat necrosis occurs when fat cells in the surgical area die, and can lead to the formation of hard lumps under the skin. This is most common in fat transfer procedures or breast surgery. In some cases, further treatment may be needed to address this complication.
- Internal Bleeding (Haematoma) – Despite careful control of bleeding during surgery, a blood vessel may occasionally start bleeding after wound closure. In rare cases, this may require a return to the operating theatre.
- Infection – Infection is a possible risk despite taking precautions, such as antibiotics, sterile environments, and antiseptics. Thorough pre-surgery washing with an antibacterial solution can help reduce this risk.
- Wound Breakdown or Delayed Healing – Factors such as soft tissue, poor blood supply, or infection can lead to wound complications. Smoking, vaping, or using nicotine significantly increases these risks. Please avoid smoking or using nicotine products during your surgical journey.
- Numbness and Nerve Damage – Some numbness in the surgical area is common and usually temporary as sensory nerves heal. Permanent nerve damage, although rare, is a potential risk of surgery.
- Fluid Build-Up (Seroma) – Fluid can sometimes collect near the surgical site. If this occurs, it may need to be drained in a procedure room or the operating theatre.
- General Anaesthetic – Anaesthesia is generally well tolerated, but there are risks associated with it. Complications can include bruising at the injection site or a sore throat from the breathing tube, while more serious issues, such as allergic reactions, may require additional medical attention. These concerns can be discussed in detail with your anaesthetist.
- Scarring – Scars are an unavoidable aspect of surgery. Most scars fade overtime, but some can become thick or keloid (raised and lumpy). Your surgeon will discuss possible scar treatments if necessary. Smoking or vaping may worsen scar appearance, so avoiding nicotine is crucial.
- Asymmetry and Unsatisfactory Results – Despite careful planning, symmetry is not always achievable. There is also a risk that the final results may not meet your expectations. Revision surgery may be required in some cases to optimise the outcome.
Specific Surgical Risks of Plastic Surgery
In addition to the general risks, there are specific risks associated with different procedures, such as breast surgery, body contouring and facial procedures.
Your surgeon will discuss these specific risks in detail during your consultation including
- Breast Surgery Risks: Risks include capsular contracture (hardening around the implant), implant rupture, changes in nipple sensation, and difficulty breastfeeding.
- Facial Procedure Risks: Risks include facial nerve injury, which can lead to temporary or permanent facial muscle weakness, as well as skin discolouration or prolonged swelling.
- Body Contouring Risks: Liposuction carries risks such as contour irregularities, fluid imbalances, and fat embolism (fat entering the bloodstream, which can be life-threatening).
How you can help Reduce Your Risks & Avoid Complications?
- Follow Instructions: Read all pre- and post-surgery documents thoroughly and follow your surgeon’s instructions precisely. Rest, wear compression garments, and avoid tampering with dressings.
- Avoid Smoking and Nicotine: Do not smoke or vape during your surgical journey, especially before and after surgery, as it increases complications.
- Provide Accurate Medical Information: Be transparent about your medications, supplements, and vitamins. Inform both your surgeon and your anaesthetist of any previous issues with surgery or anaesthesia.
- Pre-Wash Thoroughly: Use an antibacterial wash the day before and the morning of surgery to help reduce skin bacteria and lower the risk of infection.
For more Information
An optimal surgical outcome requires realistic goals, a good understanding of potential risks, and a partnership between you and your surgeon.
While every effort is made to reduce risks, complications can occur, and understanding them is key to making informed decisions.
If you have any concerns about surgery or would like more information, please schedule a consultation with Australia Cosmetic Clinics – Sydney.
Risk Factors for Complications
You may be at a higher risk of experiencing surgical complications than others. Please be transparent with your surgeon and discuss your concerns.
Risk factors for some patients can include:
- Being overweight or having a high BMI – Heart Foundation BMI Calculator
- Underlying medical conditions, allergies or sensitivities – diabetes, lupus etc
- Smoking or Vaping nicotine – Quitline
- Poor nutrition and diet deficiencies
- Alcohol and drug use
- Taking certain medications
- Undergoing multiple procedures at the same time
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Dr. Mark Kohout
Dr. Mark Kohout is a highly qualified specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 25 years of experience, based in central Sydney.
Trained in Great Britain, Australia, and the U.S., he co-founded Australia Plastic Surgery. Specializing in breast, genital, and male breast surgeries, he is a certified member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS).
Dr. Kohout has appeared in media like The Biggest Loser and has published several articles in his field.
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