Dr Wyten will discuss the risks and potential complications of plastic surgery during your consultation as part of the informed consent process. While every effort will be made to manage and minimise these risks, complications can still occur. Dr Wyten is committed to ensuring you receive the highest quality care throughout your surgical journey.
Complications of Surgery:
Surgery is a collaborative effort between the surgical team and the patient to achieve the best possible outcome. It is essential for you to actively participate in your recovery by following the surgeon’s instructions carefully. This includes getting plenty of rest, maintaining a healthy diet, and allowing sufficient time for healing. Following these steps is crucial to promote optimal recovery. Above all, refrain from smoking as it significantly and can negatively affect the healing process.
Things you can do to lower risks and complications of surgery are:
Quit Smoking and/or Vaping entirely throughout the entire surgical journey, with special emphasis on the periods before and after surgery.
Thoroughly read all your surgical documents and strictly adhere to Dr Wyten’s instructions.
When providing your medical history, be specific about any past difficulties you’ve had with surgery, anesthesia, hospital visits, or healing.
Wear compression garments as directed and avoid removing bandages or touching the incision site until it has properly healed.
Provide accurate and honest information about all medications, supplements, vitamins, and even illicit drugs you are currently taking.
Prior to surgery, ensure you thoroughly wash your body with Chlorhexidine Pre-Op Wash to reduce skin bacteria and lower the risk of infection.
Good physical health before surgery can contribute to your recovery and affect the final results.
Prepare in advance for a restful recovery by shopping for necessities, arranging for support, and avoiding stress and strain.
Follow all medical instructions diligently, especially during the recovery period.
General Risks:
Realistic Expectations
It is important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of surgery. The final result depends on various factors, including the starting point, the amount of tissue removed or added, and the techniques used during the procedure.
General Anaesthetic
Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia administered by a qualified anaesthetist. While general anaesthesia is typically safe, it carries potential risks, such as bruising at the injection site, throat discomfort, hypothermia, allergic reactions to medications, and possible heart or lung issues. Although rare, severe complications, including death, can occur.
Infection
All surgical procedures carry a risk of infection, which may be higher for individuals with a history of bariatric surgery, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, or certain medications. Antibiotics are provided during and after surgery to help reduce the risk, though additional antibiotics and treatments may be required if an infection develops.
Haematoma
In rare cases, bleeding may occur after surgery, which could require a return to the operating room. Bleeding is more common for individuals who have been taking blood-thinning medications such as warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix or Iscover), or similar substances, including supplements like fish oil, ginseng, and garlic.
Seroma
Fluid accumulation may occur in the surgical area, leading to increased swelling in a specific location. This may require drainage, potentially through an ultrasound-guided procedure, and could incur additional fees.
Lung Collapse
Small areas of the lung may collapse during surgery, increasing the risk of chest infection. This condition may require antibiotics and physiotherapy.
DVT/PE
There is a risk of developing a blood clot in the legs, which can cause pain and swelling. In rare instances, the clot can travel to the lungs, leading to a pulmonary embolism, which is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. The risk of these complications is higher for individuals who smoke, vape, take oral contraceptives, or use hormone replacement therapy (HRT). To reduce this risk, calf compressors, compression stockings, and blood thinners may be used.
Smoking/Vaping
Smoking and vaping significantly increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. It is recommended to stop smoking well in advance of the procedure, and it is advised to refrain from smoking for at least six weeks after surgery. A test for nicotine levels may be conducted prior to surgery, and failure to comply may result in the cancellation of the procedure.
Wound Healing
Wound healing complications, including breakdown, can occur due to factors such as poor blood supply, thin or soft tissues, and infection. This risk is higher in individuals with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, smoking, or autoimmune diseases, and it is more common in revision surgeries.
Spitting Stitches
Dissolvable sutures are often used during surgery, and there is a possibility they may extend through the surface of the skin. If this occurs, it is important to contact the surgical team for further advice.
Pain
While efforts are made to minimize post-operative pain, some discomfort is to be expected after surgery. Pain management strategies will be in place to help manage any discomfort.
Late Onset Pain
Pain may develop later during recovery, which could indicate an underlying issue. If this occurs, it is important to seek advice from the surgical team for evaluation and management.
Adverse Reaction to Implants
If you are undergoing a procedure that involves the use of implants, such as breast augmentation, there are potential risks associated with the implants. These may include infection, implant rupture or leakage, capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant), and changes in the shape or position of the implant. These risks can impact the long-term appearance and health of the implant, and further intervention may be required in some cases.
Changes in Sensation or Function
Depending on the type and extent of the surgery, there may be temporary or permanent changes in sensation, function, or range of motion in the treated area. This can include limitations in movement, muscle weakness, or altered sensory perception. Physical therapy or rehabilitation may be necessary to aid in recovery and restore function.
Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to certain medications, anesthesia, or materials used during surgery, such as sutures or implant materials. It’s crucial to inform the surgical team about any known allergies or previous adverse reactions to lower the risk of allergic complications.
Skin Discoloration
Occasionally, changes in skin pigmentation can occur after plastic surgery. This can manifest as hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopigmentation (lightening) of the skin. Skin discolouration can be temporary or permanent and may require additional treatments to address or improve the appearance.
Revision Surgery
In some cases, additional procedures may be necessary to achieve the desired results or address complications that arise after initial surgery. Revision surgery can be more complex and may carry additional risks compared to the initial procedure. It is important to discuss the potential need for revision surgery with your surgeon and fully understand the associated risks.
Psychological Impact
Undergoing plastic surgery can have psychological effects, particularly if the results do not meet expectations or if unrealistic expectations are held. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with Dr Wyten about your motivations, goals, and expected outcomes to ensure that you have a realistic understanding of what can be achieved and to support your mental wellbeing throughout the process. Dr Wyten may connect you with a psychologist to ensure that you are mentally prepared and fit for surgery.