Cosmetic Surgery

Sandpoint, Hayden, Coeur d'Alene and North Idaho

Possible Complications of Plastic Surgery

Surgery of any kind always carries certain inherent risks. Some risks are specific to the type of procedure you are having. Serious cosmetic surgery complications are extremely rare, but you should be aware of the potential risks.

Nausea, Vomiting and Pain

While rare, some patients may have nausea and vomiting associated with anesthesia. Your anesthesiologist will work with you to help minimize this risk. If needed, I will provide you with postoperative medication for nausea and vomiting.; Pain is perceived differently by every unique individual. You will receive appropriate pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort you might have during and after surgery.

Bleeding

Excessive bleeding is a very rare complication. It can cause swelling, bruising, and pain. In some cases, surgery is required to stop the bleeding and remove accumulated blood, which called a hematoma. You can minimize the risk of bleeding by avoiding substances such as alcohol and aspirin before and after surgery, and informing us about you and your family’s medical history. I will provide you with a list of foods and medications which you should avoid prior to your procedure.

Infection

Infection is also quite rare after surgery. However, when it happens it can be a serious and dangerous complication. In certain circumstances, I may prescribe antibiotics to minimize the risk, although it is not always indicated and will never entirely eliminate the risk of infection. Over-prescribed antibiotics can select for more aggressive, serious bacteria and can have dangerous side effects. After your surgery, if you suspect that you may be developing an infection (fever, chills, skin redness, warmth, or new drainage), please call my office right away.

Tissue death

Tissue death can occur when there is not adequate blood circulation. This risk is significantly elevated if you smoke or use nicotine products. This is why you must refrain from smoking for at least four weeks prior to and four weeks after your surgery. Tissue death can occur in other circumstance when the quality of the tissue is poor, there is a lot of scarring, there is a lot of adipose or fatty tissue, or there is undue tension on the wound.

Need for revisions

Although it is rare, certain procedures carry a higher risk of an undesirable or unexpected outcome. Some procedures commonly need “touch-ups” after the primary surgery, and this is a routine and normal part of the process. I will talk with you about my revision policy at the time of your consultation. It is important to remember that with any surgical procedure, swelling and bruising will likely obscure the final results until your body fully heals. This may take many months up to a year or more, depending on the type of surgery. This is normal, and I will guide you through the recovery and healing process.

Excessive scarring

Scar formation is a normal part of the healing process, but some people are genetically predisposed to excessive scarring. If you have a personal or family history of excessive scarring, you must discuss this with me before your procedure. The amount of melanin in your skin may influence the color and quality of the scars. Proper post-operative care may improve the appearance of your scars.

Blood clots

Blood clots, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can be a fatal complication if the clot migrates to the pulmonary system (pulmonary embolism or PE). This is an extremely rare complication. Some causes of elevated risk include obesity, smoking, long surgery times under general anesthesia, a history of blood clots or genetic clotting disorders, hormone therapy or oral contraceptives, a history of cancer or recent trauma. You may need special compression stockings during and after surgery, or even anti-clotting medication, depending on your situation and health history. You can help prevent blood clots by moving around right after surgery. This includes getting up and walking, shifting your position often while lying down, flexing your legs and feet, as well as staying hydrated. I will talk with you about how to minimize your risk before surgery.

Numbness

Numbness and tingling are usually temporary, but in some cases can be permanent. This sensation is often caused by stretching or damage to the nerves.

Skin irregularities

Genetics, physical limitations during surgery and scar formation during healing can cause skin irregularities including, divots, dimples, puckers, and discolorations.

Excess fluid or blood accumulation (seroma or hematoma)

An accumulation of fluid or blood beneath a closed incision often must be drained or removed if it is large. The collection of fluid can cause problems with infections or skin and tissue healing.

Asymmetries

A small amount of asymmetry after surgery is normal. After all, none of us is completely symmetric before surgery! Moderate to severe asymmetry may require revision surgery. I will help identify your natural asymmetries prior to surgery so that you are aware of how each of us is unique and both sides of our body are never mirror images.

Changes in skin pigmentation

Darker skin is more prone to the risk of discoloration. Some procedures may result in hypopigmentation (lightening) or hyperpigmentation (darkening) of the skin. You can minimize the risk by avoiding sun exposure and tanning beds, before and after surgery.

Anesthetic complications

Although rare, some patients have a reaction to anesthesia. The current state-of-the-art anesthesia protocols and equipment have made general and local anesthesia extremely safe. Potential anesthesia complications can include problems with the circulatory system, nervous system or lungs, and rarely result in death. Complications are very unusual, and you will have time to consult with the anesthesiologist so that you feel comfortable and have all your questions answered.

Dr. Michelle Spring provides surgical expertise and exceptional patient care in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in Sandpoint, Ponderay, and all of Northern Idaho. With extensive training in breast surgery, body contouring, and facial surgery, she offers cosmetic procedures with an emphasis on natural results, safety and personal attention to your individual goals. If you are considering cosmetic surgery, learn more by viewing our Plastic Surgery Photo Gallery or FAQ's page, and contact Dr. Spring today to schedule your cosmetic surgery consultation.

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