Cosmetic surgeries can correct everything from minor aging signs to severe scarring. Reconstructive surgeries help fix severe injuries and repair deep cuts due to accidents and injuries. Most cosmetic surgery procedures are accurate, but a reliable and experienced cosmetic surgeon can ensure better results. That said, it’s best to also know about the side effects of cosmetic surgeries before undergoing one. Read on to learn more.

1. Infection in the incisions
All surgeries bring about the risk of infection at the spot where the incision was made, and proper care is the only way to minimize this risk. Some incisions might have to be left bandaged for a few days after being sutured. Excess fluids that accumulate close to the area of the incision may also need to be drained. Ineffective draining of these fluids can lead to secondary infections.

2. Loss of blood
Some extensive procedures involve a long incision or multiple incisions to get the desired results. In such cases, blood loss is a common side effect or complication of cosmetic surgeries.

3. Swelling and bruising
Bruising and swelling are among the most common side effects of all types of cosmetic surgeries. These might last for a few days depending on the procedure, and a patient’s overall health also determines how quickly an incision heals.

4. Persistent pain
In the case of some surgeries, patients might be administered a painkiller for a short duration after the procedure. Once its effects wear off, they might start experiencing mild to moderate pain in the area where the incision was made. Some may even feel it worsening with movement.

5. Nerve damage
Certain cosmetic surgeries can lead to minor to major nerve damage close to the area being corrected. Comprehensive procedures like a full facelift or even an abdominoplasty involve the extraction of a large batch of skin tissues and muscle tissues to tighten the external appearance of the skin and tackle sagging. This can sometimes result in nerve damage characterized by numbness in small areas around the incision.

6. Tissue damage and other side effects
Patients, particularly those who smoke or consume alcohol, might experience severe tissue damage or infections post surgery. Doctors usually recommend abstaining from alcohol consumption and smoking for a few days after surgery, and not following these instructions can hinder the recovery process.

Understanding the common side effects of cosmetic surgeries can help you weigh the pros and cons of undergoing a procedure and make an informed decision. It’s advisable to consider the purpose of undergoing a procedure and consulting a doctor to know whether any non-invasive methods can help achieve the desired results. Else, the doctor can provide guidance on how to minimize the side effects and ensure proper care after a surgical procedure.