SWELLING AND BRUISING: After any surgery, moderate swelling and bruising are to be expected. However, excessive swelling and bruising may indicate bleeding or possible infection and should be addressed.

DISCOMFORT AND PAIN: Mild to moderate discomfort or pain is normal following any surgery. If the pain becomes severe and is not alleviated by pain medications, it is advised to contact our office for further guidance.

CRUSTING ALONG THE INCISION LINES: Crusting along suture lines is a common occurrence. It is usually treated with hydrogen peroxide and/or antibiotic ointment. It’s important to wait until the crusting has disappeared before applying your usual moisturizer to the incision site.

NUMBNESS: Sometimes, small sensory nerves on the skin’s surface may be affected during an incision. Sensation typically returns gradually within 3-6 months as the nerve endings heal.

ITCHING: Itching and occasional small shooting electrical sensations within the skin often occur as the nerve endings heal. Ice, skin moisturizers, and massages are frequently helpful. These symptoms are normal during the recovery period.

REDNESS OF SCARS: All new scars will initially appear red, dark pink, or purple. Scars on the breasts or body tend to take a year or longer to fade.

DARKNESS OF SCARS: Hyperpigmentation or darkening of scars may occur, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones.

HEMATOMA: Small collections of blood under the skin often resolve on their own. However, larger hematomas may require aspiration, drainage, or surgical removal for optimal results.

INFLAMMATION AND INFECTION: Superficial infections can usually be treated with antibiotic ointment, while deeper infections may require oral antibiotics. In some cases, abscesses may develop and need to be drained.

THICK, WIDE, OR DEPRESSED SCARS: Despite the surgeon’s best efforts to close incisions perfectly, abnormal scars can occur. Steroid injections, silicone sheeting, or additional surgery may be necessary to correct these scars. Some areas on the body scar more than others, and some people scar more than others. Your own history of scarring should give you some indication of what you can expect. Massage may also help.

WOUND SEPARATION OR DELAYED HEALING: Incisions can sometimes separate or heal slowly due to various reasons, such as inflammation, infection, excessive tension, decreased circulation, smoking, protein depletion, or external pressure. While delayed healing does not usually significantly affect the final outcome, secondary scar revision may be required.

SENSITIVITY OR ALLERGY TO DRESSINGS OR TAPE: Occasionally, allergic reactions or sensitivity to soaps, ointments, tape, or sutures used during or after surgery may occur. These reactions are usually mild and easily treated but can rarely be severe and require aggressive treatment or hospitalization.

INCREASED RISKS FOR SMOKERS: Smokers have a higher chance of skin loss and poor healing due to reduced circulation to the skin.

INJURY TO DEEPER STRUCTURES: Blood vessels, nerves, and muscles may be injured during surgery. The incidence of such injuries is rare.

If they are severe, any of the problems mentioned under Common Risks may significantly delay healing or necessitate further surgical procedures.

It’s important to disclose all relevant medical information to Dr. Schwartz and his medical staff before surgery to help minimize the chances of medical complications such as pulmonary embolism, severe allergic reactions, cardiac arrhythmias, heart attacks, or hyperthermia. Having our board-certified anesthesiologist present during your surgery further reduces these risks.

While surgical procedures aim to improve a condition or appearance, it’s important to note that not all results may meet expectations. Despite employing the best techniques, outcomes may sometimes include asymmetry, dissatisfaction, poor healing, or suboptimal results. In such cases, revisional surgery or additional treatments may be necessary. It is rare for complications to be permanent, but it is essential to be aware that they can occur.

POOR RESULTS:

Although surgery techniques are advanced, there is a chance for asymmetry, suboptimal results, poor healing, and unhappiness with the outcome. Revisional surgery may be necessary to get the desired result.

In conclusion, surgeries carry inherent risks, but the majority of complications are infrequent and manageable. By understanding the potential risks and following Dr. Schwartz and his staff’s guidance during the recovery period, you can mitigate complications and achieve the best possible outcome.