Patients wished they had done better research prior to surgery
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons conducted a survey among patients who have undergone plastic surgery. The survey was designed to assess the differences between 301 patients who had cosmetic surgery such as breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and liposuction; and 316 patients who had medically necessary surgery such as gynecologic, orthopedic, and ophthalmic surgery.
The result says that only 28 percent of the patients had checked their surgeon’s credentials and more than half admitted that they were concerned about side effects and complications but were uncomfortable asking their surgeons some questions.
News Medical delivers the report.
Patients were never directly asked about side effects at any point in the survey, but instead were asked about risks and complications, which in several questions included some well-known side effects such as nausea, vomiting and pain.
Before surgery, 91 percent of cosmetic plastic surgery patients said they knew what to expect, but fewer than half recalled being informed of some common side effects and complications such as bleeding (48 percent), nausea and vomiting (42 percent), or blood clots (34 percent).
Patients who experienced a side effect or complication reported being unable to accomplish tasks (35 percent), decreased energy levels (32 percent), and time away from work (27 percent) as negatively impacting their daily life during recovery.
Dr. Roxanne Guy, the president of ASPS, says the study suggests patients are not as aware as they should be when it comes to understanding the possible side effects and complications after surgery.
The survey aims to help people open their eyes about the risks and complications of plastic surgery and about the need to do their own research when they plan to go through a surgical procedure. Patients should ask questions during initial consultations about the surgeon’s credentials, training experience, possible alternatives to surgery, and the risks involved.

