9 Plastic Surgery Side Effects You NEED to Know (Before Going Under the Knife!)

Embarking on a journey to enhance your appearance through plastic surgery is a significant decision. While the potential rewards – boosted confidence, improved self-image, and a renewed sense of well-being – are alluring, it's crucial to approach the process with a clear understanding of the potential downsides. Like any surgical procedure, plastic surgery carries inherent risks and potential side effects. Being well-informed about these possibilities is paramount to making a responsible and informed choice. This article delves into nine important side effects you should be aware of before considering going under the knife.

Swelling and bruising are almost universally experienced after plastic surgery. The extent of these effects varies depending on the procedure, the individual's healing capabilities, and the surgeon's technique. Swelling occurs as the body responds to the trauma of surgery, leading to fluid accumulation in the treated area. Bruising, on the other hand, results from blood leaking from damaged blood vessels. While these are typically temporary, lasting from a few days to several weeks, they can be disconcerting. Following your surgeon's post-operative instructions diligently, including applying cold compresses and taking prescribed medications, can help minimize swelling and bruising. Remember, patience is key; these effects will gradually subside as your body heals.

Pain is another common side effect following plastic surgery. The level of pain experienced varies greatly depending on the procedure, individual pain tolerance, and the effectiveness of pain management strategies. While some procedures may only cause mild discomfort, others can result in more significant pain. Your surgeon will typically prescribe pain medication to help manage post-operative pain. It's important to take these medications as directed and to communicate openly with your surgeon about your pain levels. Non-pharmacological pain management techniques, such as rest, ice application, and relaxation exercises, can also be helpful in alleviating discomfort. Remember, pain is a signal from your body that it's healing, and it's important to listen to your body and allow it the time it needs to recover.

Scarring is an unavoidable consequence of any surgical procedure that involves cutting the skin. The extent and appearance of scars depend on several factors, including the type of surgery, the individual's skin type, and the surgeon's skill in minimizing scar formation. While surgeons strive to make incisions in inconspicuous locations and use techniques to minimize scarring, some scarring is inevitable. Scars typically go through a maturation process, initially appearing red and raised before gradually fading and flattening over time. Various treatments, such as topical creams, silicone sheets, and laser therapy, can help improve the appearance of scars. It's important to discuss your concerns about scarring with your surgeon and to understand the potential for scar revision procedures if necessary. Remember, scars are a permanent reminder of your surgical journey, but they can often be minimized and managed effectively.

Infection is a potential complication of any surgical procedure, including plastic surgery. While surgeons take precautions to minimize the risk of infection, such as sterilizing instruments and using antibiotics, infections can still occur. Signs of infection include increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, and drainage from the incision site. If you suspect an infection, it's crucial to contact your surgeon immediately. Early detection and treatment with antibiotics can usually resolve the infection effectively. To minimize the risk of infection, it's important to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping the incision site clean and dry, avoiding touching the incision with unwashed hands, and taking any prescribed antibiotics as directed.

Numbness and tingling are common side effects following plastic surgery, particularly in areas where nerves have been affected during the procedure. These sensations can range from mild to severe and can last for weeks, months, or even longer in some cases. Numbness occurs when nerves are damaged or compressed, leading to a loss of sensation in the affected area. Tingling, on the other hand, is a sensation of pins and needles that can occur as nerves regenerate. In most cases, numbness and tingling are temporary and resolve on their own as the nerves heal. However, in some cases, these sensations can be permanent. Your surgeon can assess the extent of nerve damage and recommend treatments to help improve nerve function. Patience is key, as nerve healing can be a slow process.

A hematoma is a collection of blood that forms outside of blood vessels, typically as a result of bleeding after surgery. Hematomas can occur in the surgical site and can cause pain, swelling, and bruising. Small hematomas often resolve on their own as the body reabsorbs the blood. However, larger hematomas may require drainage by your surgeon. If you experience significant pain, swelling, or bruising after surgery, it's important to contact your surgeon to rule out a hematoma. To minimize the risk of hematoma formation, it's important to avoid strenuous activity and to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding blood-thinning medications.

A seroma is a collection of serous fluid (a clear, yellowish fluid) that accumulates under the skin after surgery. Seromas are more common after procedures that involve significant tissue disruption, such as liposuction or tummy tucks. Seromas can cause swelling, discomfort, and a feeling of fullness in the affected area. Small seromas often resolve on their own as the body reabsorbs the fluid. However, larger seromas may require drainage by your surgeon. If you suspect a seroma, it's important to contact your surgeon for evaluation and treatment. Compression garments can help prevent seroma formation by reducing fluid accumulation in the surgical site.

Anesthesia is an essential part of many plastic surgery procedures, but it also carries potential risks and side effects. Anesthesia can range from local anesthesia, which numbs a small area, to general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep. Common side effects of anesthesia include nausea, vomiting, sore throat, and headache. More serious complications, such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, and heart problems, are rare but can occur. Your anesthesiologist will carefully monitor you during surgery to minimize the risk of complications. It's important to inform your anesthesiologist about any allergies, medical conditions, and medications you are taking. Discussing your concerns about anesthesia with your anesthesiologist can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Perhaps the most important side effect to consider is dissatisfaction with the results of your surgery. While plastic surgery can often achieve remarkable improvements, it's important to have realistic expectations. It's crucial to understand that plastic surgery is not a perfect science and that results can vary depending on individual factors. Before undergoing surgery, it's important to have a thorough consultation with your surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. Your surgeon can help you understand what is realistically achievable and can address any concerns you may have. It's also important to be patient and to allow your body the time it needs to heal and for the final results to become apparent. If you are unhappy with the results of your surgery, it's important to communicate your concerns with your surgeon. In some cases, revision surgery may be an option to address any issues.

Plastic surgery can be a life-changing experience, but it's important to approach it with a realistic understanding of the potential risks and side effects. By being well-informed and by working closely with a qualified and experienced surgeon, you can minimize the risks and maximize the chances of achieving a positive outcome. Remember to ask questions, express your concerns, and take the time to make an informed decision that is right for you. Your health and well-being should always be your top priority.