Surgical Risks & Complications | FacePlus Aesthetics

All surgical procedures carry inherent risks that must be thoroughly understood before proceeding with any facial plastic surgery procedure. Dr Scott J Turner, Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS), is committed to transparent communication, ensuring every patient receives comprehensive information about potential adverse outcomes and the measures employed to maximise safety throughout the surgical journey.

During your consultation, Dr Turner will discuss the specific risks associated with your planned procedure as part of the informed consent process. He will explain how surgical protocols, meticulous technique, and comprehensive aftercare are designed to minimise complications—though it remains essential to understand that adverse outcomes can still occur despite the best medical care.

Understanding Surgical Risk

Choosing to undergo facial plastic surgery is a significant decision requiring careful consideration of both benefits and potential complications. By selecting a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon and diligently following all pre-operative and post-operative instructions, you take important steps toward ensuring a successful outcome. However, the success of your surgery depends on multiple factors, including your individual healing capacity, adherence to recovery protocols, and sometimes circumstances beyond anyone’s control.

General Surgical Risks

The following risks apply broadly to surgical procedures:

General anaesthesia, sedation, and local anaesthesia each carry specific risks including allergic reactions, adverse responses to medications, and breathing difficulties. Dr Turner operates exclusively in fully accredited hospital facilities with qualified consultant anaesthetists who monitor patients continuously throughout procedures.

Bleeding and Haematoma

All surgical procedures involve tissue manipulation that can result in bleeding. Haematoma—a collection of blood beneath the skin—represents one of the more common complications following facial surgery and may require surgical drainage if significant.

Infection

Despite sterile surgical environments and prophylactic antibiotics, surgical sites can become infected. Wound infections may delay healing, compromise aesthetic outcomes, and occasionally require additional treatment.

Blood Clots

Prolonged immobility during and after surgery increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis, which can potentially travel to the lungs causing pulmonary embolism. Early mobilisation after surgery helps reduce this risk.

Wound Healing Difficulties

Individual healing capacity varies considerably. Some patients experience delayed wound healing or wound separation due to factors including compromised blood supply, infection, or smoking. Patients who smoke face dramatically increased risks, which is why absolute cessation for a minimum of six weeks before and after surgery is mandatory.

Scarring

All surgical procedures result in some degree of scarring. While incisions are strategically placed in concealed locations, individual scar healing varies based on genetics, skin type, and post-operative care.

Risks Specific to Facial Plastic Surgery

Beyond general surgical risks, facial procedures carry specific potential complications:

Nerve Injury

The face contains complex networks of sensory nerves (providing feeling) and motor nerves (controlling facial movement). Sensory nerve injury may result in temporary or permanent numbness. Motor nerve injury may cause temporary or permanent weakness affecting facial expression.

Asymmetry

Perfect facial symmetry is neither natural nor achievable. Pre-existing asymmetries may become more apparent after surgery, or differential healing may create new asymmetries. Significant asymmetry may require revision procedures.

Contour Irregularities

Surface irregularities, visible depressions, or unexpected contour changes can occur following facial procedures. Additional procedures may sometimes be required to address persistent irregularities.

Skin Necrosis

Compromised blood supply to facial skin can result in tissue death, particularly in patients who smoke. Skin necrosis may result in delayed healing and unfavourable scarring.

Hair Loss

Procedures involving incisions within or near the hairline may result in temporary or permanent hair loss along incision lines.

Unsatisfactory Aesthetic Outcome

Despite meticulous surgical technique, outcomes may not always meet patient expectations. Revision surgery may be considered in appropriate cases after complete healing.

Psychological and Emotional Effects

Facial plastic surgery can have significant psychological impacts. While most patients experience satisfaction with their results, some may struggle with adjustment to their changed appearance.

Minimising Your Risk

While surgical risks cannot be entirely eliminated, several factors significantly influence outcomes:

Choose a Qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon: Dr Turner is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Plastic Surgery, representing the highest level of surgical training in Australia.
Undergo Surgery in Accredited Facilities: All procedures are performed in fully accredited private hospitals with qualified consultant anaesthetists.
Provide Complete Medical History: Full disclosure of your medical history and medications enables appropriate surgical planning.
Follow Pre-Operative Instructions: Adhering to instructions regarding smoking cessation and medication adjustments optimises your condition for surgery.
Comply with Post-Operative Care: Following wound care instructions and attending follow-up appointments are essential for optimal healing.
Maintain Realistic Expectations: Understanding what surgery can realistically achieve helps ensure satisfaction with outcomes.