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Surgical Risks and Complications

Understanding Surgical Risks

All invasive surgical procedures carry inherent risks and potential complications. It is important for patients to fully understand these risks and take the necessary precautions to minimise them. The decision to undergo surgery should be based on an informed comparison between the risks involved and the potential benefits.

While the majority of patients experience smooth recoveries, complications can sometimes arise. In such cases, our team is committed to resolving any issues as quickly as possible. Complications may prolong recovery, but they rarely have a permanent effect on the final outcome.

During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss potential risks with you and explain how they can be managed.

Pre-Surgical Considerations

Before your procedure, you will receive detailed pre-operative and post-operative instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery. Adhering to these guidelines is essential for achieving the best possible surgical outcome.

  • Realistic expectations are essential. The final results will depend on your body’s natural healing process.
  • Health status matters. Pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, smoking, and obesity can increase surgical risks.
  • Medication review is essential. Some medications, such as blood thinners, need to be adjusted before surgery.

Scarring and Healing

Scarring is a natural part of the body’s healing process. The appearance and severity of scars depend on factors such as skin type, genetics, and incision location.

  • All surgical procedures result in scarring.
  • Scars usually take 12-18 months to fully mature. Over time, they tend to fade, soften, and become less noticeable.
  • In the early healing phase, scars may feel firm, raised, and appear darker (red or purple). Some areas may be uneven.
  • Certain individuals are more prone to hypertrophic or keloid scarring. If this occurs, your surgeon may recommend silicone-based dressings or other treatments.
  • If you experience significant scar thickening or abnormal healing, contact your surgeon for further evaluation.

Common Surgical Risks and Complications

While complications are uncommon, it is important to be aware of potential risks before undergoing surgery.

Bleeding & Haematoma

  • Some bleeding is expected, but excessive bleeding may require medical intervention.
  • A haematoma (blood collection under the skin) may cause swelling, pain, or bruising. In rare cases, drainage may be needed.
  • Blood-thinning medications, including aspirin and certain supplements, should be stopped before surgery as instructed.

Infection

  • Infections occur when bacteria enter the surgical site, causing redness, swelling, pain, pus, or fever.
  • Most infections are treated with antibiotics, but severe cases may require additional medical care.
  • Following strict post-operative hygiene reduces infection risks.

Pain and Discomfort

  • Pain varies depending on the procedure and individual tolerance.
  • Your surgeon will provide pain management strategies, including prescribed medications and post-operative care.
  • Severe or prolonged pain should be reported to your surgeon.

Bruising and Swelling

  • Some degree of swelling and bruising is normal and expected.
  • These symptoms usually peak within the first 48-72 hours and gradually resolve.
  • Using cold compresses, keeping the area elevated, and following activity restrictions can help reduce swelling.

Seroma (Fluid Accumulation)

A seroma is a collection of clear lymphatic fluid under the skin, often resulting from damage to small lymph vessels during surgery.

Symptoms of Seroma:

  • Swelling or fullness near the surgical area
  • Increased pressure or discomfort
  • Clear or yellowish fluid leakage from the incision. Most seromas resolve on their own, but larger ones may need drainage.
  • Wearing compression garments and avoiding excessive movement can help prevent seromas.
  • If a seroma becomes infected, it may turn into an abscess, requiring medical intervention.

Anaesthesia-Related Risks

Surgical procedures require local, twilight, or general anaesthesia, all of which carry some level of risk.

  • Sore Throat: A breathing tube may cause mild irritation post-operatively.
  • Nausea & Vomiting: Some patients may experience temporary nausea after anaesthesia.
  • Allergic Reactions: Though rare, severe reactions to anaesthesia can occur. If you have any known allergies, inform your medical team before surgery.

Asymmetry and Unfavourable Results

  • Perfect symmetry is not always achievable due to natural anatomical differences.
  • Additional procedures may be required in cases of significant asymmetry.

Wound Healing Delays

  • Some patients may experience slow wound healing due to diabetes, smoking, poor circulation, or immune conditions.
  • Proper nutrition, hydration, and avoiding smoking/alcohol can improve healing.

Less Common but Serious Risks

Nerve Damage

  • Surgical procedures can occasionally lead to temporary or permanent nerve damage.
  • Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or loss of sensation around the surgical site.
  • Most cases of nerve damage improve over time as nerves regenerate, but in rare instances, nerve function may not fully return.
  • If you experience unusual sensations or prolonged numbness, inform your surgeon immediately.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) & Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

  • Blood clots can form in the legs (DVT) and travel to the lungs (PE), leading to life-threatening complications.
  • Patients taking birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or with a history of blood clots are at higher risk.
  • Prevention includes early mobility, compression stockings, and, in some cases, blood-thinning medications.

Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)

  • Rarely, surgical procedures near the chest area can lead to a collapsed lung, requiring immediate treatment.

Psychological and Emotional Recovery

  • Some patients experience post-operative mood swings, fatigue, or mild depression. This is normal and typically resolves within a few weeks.
  • Supportive care and maintaining realistic expectations can help during this period.

Death (Extremely Rare but Possible)

  • While extremely rare, all surgical procedures carry an inherent risk of serious complications, including death.
  • This may result from severe infections, anaesthetic complications, blood clots, or unforeseen medical conditions.
  • Surgeons prioritise patient safety through thorough pre-surgical screenings and up-to-date surgical protocols.
  • Patients with underlying health conditions, such as heart disease or lung problems, may have a higher risk, and additional medical clearance may be required before surgery.

Minimising Risks & Optimising Recovery

You can minimise the risk of complications by following these key steps:

  • Adhere to all pre-operative and post-operative instructions. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and unnecessary medications before and after surgery. Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated to support wound healing. Engage in gentle movement to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. Attend all follow-up appointments so your surgeon can monitor healing.

If you experience excessive pain, unusual swelling, fever, difficulty breathing, or any other concerning symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately.

Final Considerations

Surgery is a personal decision that requires careful consideration of both risks and benefits. Our team is dedicated to patient safety, thorough pre-surgical screening, and expert post-operative care to ensure the best possible outcome.

If you have any questions about the risks involved in your procedure, please discuss them with your surgeon during your consultation.

Your health and well-being are our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.