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Cosmetic Surgery Risks

As with any surgical procedure, plastic surgery entails some risks. Most risks are minimal, but it is important that, before planning a procedure, you fully understand any potential side effects and complications. General surgical risks include reaction to anesthesia, as well as infection, hematoma, seroma, embolism, and necrosis. These risks vary greatly in severity and in frequency, and risks may be greater or lesser depending on the plastic surgery procedure.

Anesthesia

General surgical risks include the possibility of difficulty with anesthesia. However, general anesthesia is very safe in healthy patients and is preferred by most.

Infection

Any invasive procedure introduces some risk for infection. While most infections are preventable and treatable with antibiotics, some may require more aggressive therapy including hospitalization.

Hematoma and Seroma

Hematoma and seroma are common cosmetic surgical risks that can vary in severity. Hematoma refers to the pooling of blood under the skin, and seroma refers to a pooling of serum, a fluid contained in whole blood. Most hematomas are very minor, and amount to simple bruising, but some more serious cases might require surgery to repair. Seroma can be effectively treated by draining the area. The results are generally excellent.

Embolism

Embolism is a rare but potentially serious complication in which a material such as a blood clot or fat breaks off and enters the bloodstream, causing occlusion or obstruction. This material can then enter the lungs or the brain, causing serious damage. Signs of pulmonary embolism, or embolism in the lungs, include shortness of breath and other breathing difficulties.

Necrosis

Necrosis is a very rare condition in which skin, tissue, or fat begins to die following a surgical procedure. Some types of necrosis will clear up on its own, but in certain very rare instances, further surgery may be required to prevent the condition from spreading.

Contact our plastic surgeons today to arrange an appointment to discuss what cosmetic procedures are right for you, and what risks they may entail.

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About Dr. Bray

The Bray Plastic Surgery Medical Center in Torrance, California, was founded by Dr. David A. Bray. Bray Plastic Surgery is excited to offer the unique blend of over 30 years of experience in facial plastic surgery combined with the latest in cosmetic surgery and non-surgical aesthetics. Our Medical Center offers the expertise, technologies and techniques to help our patients look and feel their best.
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