Risks

Stem Cell Therapy Risks

Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine are still an experimental treatment. Any information related to such treatments provided in this website are for education purposes only. It is highly recommended to consult a licensed physician, doctor or healthcare professional about these therapies. It is not be construed as medical advice or any emergency health need you may be experiencing. This website doesn’t offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatments, and has not been evaluated by AHPRA and national boards and FDA. Ensure that you consult a licensed physician, doctor, or healthcare professional before considering Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine, as they are still experimental treatments.

Plastic Surgery Risks

When considering plastic surgery, it’s important to be aware that all surgical procedures carry risks and that all Plastic Surgery involves a Recovery Period. Understanding and minimising these risks will be crucial for your recovery. Nevertheless, it's crucial to understand that even with a skilled plastic surgeon, care in a premium hospital, and follow recovery protocols strictly, complications and risks can still arise.

1. General Plastic Surgery Risks

Most surgical procedures, including Plastic Surgery, have associated risks and potential complications:

Temporary swelling & bruising
Allergic reactions to medical materials
Infections that may need antibiotic treatment or further surgery
Require additional surgical intervention to address complications or improve surgical results
Seroma: Fluid accumulation around incision site can cause seroma, resulting in swelling and discomfort. Age, health, and other medical conditions affect seroma formation. Therefore, drains will be used to help to remove excess fluid and reduce the risk of seroma formation.
Hematoma, or haematoma, or blood suffusion is a localised bleeding outside of blood vessels, due to either disease or trauma including injury or surgery. Factors such as age, general health, certain medical conditions, certain medications, infections, excessive activity too soon after surgery can increase the risk of hematoma.
Keloid or hypertrophic scarring is a thick raised scar. Scarring is a regular step in the healing process following plastic surgery. While scars usually fade with time, there is a possibility of developing hypertrophic scars, which can exhibit thickness, lumpiness, elevation, inflammation, and itchiness.
Delayed wound healing: Poor blood supply, infection, inadequate wound care, tension on the wound or separation of wound edges, certain medications or medical conditions (including diabetes), poor nutrition, or smoking can cause delayed wound healing
Deep Vein Thrombosis: Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of blood clots (thrombi) in the deep veins, usually in the legs. It may cause legs or arms to swell.
Temporary or ongoing severe pain or discomfort
Heart attack, pulmonary embolism, stroke or death. While these occurrences are rare, they can be linked to factors such as anaesthesia or surgical complications, blood clots, and underlying medical conditions.
Nerve damage modifies the sensation and sensitivity, leading to numbness at or near the surgical site. This condition may have a temporary or permanent effect.

Prior to your surgery, you will be able to discuss any concerns you have regarding anaesthesia. General Anesthesia risks, include:

Allergic reactions
Breathing difficulties
Nausea & vomiting
Aspiration
Cardiac complications
Post-Operative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD)
Temporary medical side-effects such as drowsiness, headaches or muscle aches.

2. Risks Of Different Procedures

2.1 Breast Augmentation

Asymmetry of the breasts
Wrinkling of the skin over the implant
Breastfeeding difficulties
Implant rupture
Implant slippage or movement
Lumps in lymph node tissue caused by leaking silicone
Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant, potentially affecting the shape and feel of the breast. It is usually a normal part of healing and can even prevent slippage. However, in rare cases, ruptured implants can cause capsular contracture and can be painful.

2.2 Breast Lift

Breast asymmetry
Stiff shoulder
Skin discolouration/permanent pigmentation
Hard lumps in skin by fat necrosis

2.3 Breast Reduction

Skin discolouration/permanent pigmentation changes
Damage to nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and lungs (temporary or permanent)
Fat necrosis resulting in hard lumps in skin
Breast asymmetry
Stiff shoulder

2.3 Removal Of Breast Implant

Breast deformity
Breast ptosis (sagging)
Breast asymmetry

2.4 Rhinoplasty

Heavy nosebleeds
Loss or reduction of sense of smell
Dark skin under eyes which can last up to 6 months
Difficulty breathing due to narrowed airways
Weakened support structure of nose

2.5 Facelift

Nerve damage which may result in smile asymmetry
Difficulties closing eyes
Loss of movement in forehead
Temporary or permanent hair loss around scars
Skin loss from impaired blood supply
Deformity of earlobe
Facial asymmetry

2.6 Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty)

Removal of too much skin which can expose the cornea to injury
Itchy, watery, or dry eyes
Persistent pain
Eyelid asymmetry
Difficulty closing eyes
Eyelid ptosis – temporary or permanent sagging skin that pulls upper eyelid down
Ectropion – temporary or permanent lax or droopy lower eyelids
Temporary or permanent blurred or impaired vision. This is an extremely rare complication. Smoking, pre-existing eye disease, and straining, lifting or excessive coughing after surgery can increase this risk.
Skin discolouration

2.7 Ear Pinning (Otoplasty)

Nerve endings may be cut during the procedure. If this occurs, clients will experience a temporary itchy sensation as the nerves regenerate.
Ulcers (near incision site) (This is the first procedure that has ulcers listed as a complication – is this across all procedures?)
Asymmetry of the ears
Re-protrusion of the ears if the sutures break during the healing process.

2.8 Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Heart or lung complications
Tightened skin preventing forward bend
Future skin grafts required from areas not healing completely

2.9 Arm Lift

Restricted movement from tightened skin
Fat embolism after liposuction
Asymmetry

2.10 Thigh Lift

Distortion of genitalia contour & appearance
Restricted movement from tightened skin
Fat embolism (after liposuction)
Asymmetry
Temporary or permanent skin discolouration

2.11 Labiaplasty

Fat embolism after liposuction
Over-correction where too much tissue is removed or under-correction where too little tissue is removed
Excessive bleeding
Asymmetry

2.12 Male Breast Reduction (Gynaecomastia)

Asymmetry of the breasts or nipples
Permanent pigment changes
Re-occurrence of tissue growth. If the cause of the excess tissue growth is not identified and treated, it can grow again. Clients are asked to wait until they have stopped developing before they consider surgery. Similarly, any medications or drug use that might be causing the condition should cease. Clients should aim to be as fit and healthy as possible to ensure long-lasting results.
Need for further surgery to remove excess skin

2.13 Jaw Surgery

Common side effects such as bleeding and infection may occur post surgery and varies according to each patient so careful attention is needed.
Even with the screws (and plates) in place it still takes about 6 weeks to heal completely. Be careful to avoid an injury to this area of your face as it may cause the cheekbone to move out of position

3. Minimise Your Own Personal Risk

Your health is our number one priority. Which is why, failure to follow some of the following may result in your surgery being postponed or, even cancelled.

Read all documentation from Glamjet and your Surgeon closely
Precisely follow all the advice from your Surgeon as this will be tailored to your individual needs
Disclose your full medical history, including:

Physical health including but not limited to allergies, medical conditions, diseases or illnesses, smoker status, weight.
Mental health illnesses or concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, body dysmorphic disorder.
Medications, vitamins and supplements

Alert your Glamjet Client Manager and Surgeon to changes relating to any of the above.
Be in great physical health prior to surgery
Ensure you have realistic surgical goals and work with your surgeon to ensure your treatment plan is safe. Also understand that results are never guaranteed and that individual results may vary. The outcomes for one patient may not necessarily reflect your results.
Minimise your exposure to post-operative risks during recovery by:

Quickly communicating any concerns you have with your Surgeon
Ensuring you are suitably prepared for your recovery period.
Attending all follow-up appointments
Ensuring proper wound care
Wearing post-surgery support garments as instructed
Maintaining good nutrition
Until advised by your surgeon, avoid activities that may hinder your recovery, including smoking, alcohol, strenuous exercise etc.

4. What To Expect During Your Recovery

Indicative Plastic Surgery Recovery information for each procedure is provided below.

4.1 Breast Augmentation

In Australia, Breast Augmentation is typically regarded as day surgery. So, assuming good general health, clients can leave the hospital 2 – 3 hours after they wake.

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary from person to person; however, we advise clients to allow 4 – 6 weeks for post-surgery recovery after a Breast Augmentation. Clients must rest for 2 weeks. Importantly, no driving, work or exercise in the 1st week. In the 2nd week, clients can ease into light, lower body exercise & in most cases, return to work. To ensure optimal healing, post-surgery support garments must be worn for 6 weeks.

Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 6 – 9 months. During this time, the appearance of the implant will change & settle.

4.2 Breast Lift

In Australia, Breast Lift is completed as day surgery procedures. So, assuming good general health, clients are typically able to leave the hospital 2 to 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia.

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary from person to person; however, we advise clients to allow 4 – 6 weeks for post-surgery recovery after a Breast Lift. Clients must rest for 1 – 2 weeks. Importantly, no driving, work or exercise in the 1st week. Two weeks after surgery, clients are likely to be able to return to work, a normal shower routine can be reintroduced, as can light lower body exercise.To ensure optimal healing, post-surgery support garments must be worn for 6 weeks.

Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 6 months. During this time, Breasts will become softer & scars will fade.

4.3 Breast Reduction

In Australia, Breast Reduction is typically a day surgery. So, assuming good general health, clients can leave the hospital 2 to 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia. Although rare, in some cases clients may need to stay overnight. If opting for a combined procedure, all clients may need to stay in hospital for 1 – 2 days.

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary from person to person; however, we advise clients to allow 4 – 6 weeks for post-surgery recovery after a Breast Reduction. Clients must rest for 1 – 2 weeks. Clients can resume gentle walking & driving after 1 week. In most cases, normal activities including work, can resume 2 weeks after surgery. Post surgery support garments must be worn for 6 weeks.

Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 6 – 12 months. During this time, the breasts will become softer & more natural. Scars may take up to 18 months to fade.

4.5 Breast Implant Removal

A Breast Explant is typically a day surgery in Australia. So, assuming good general health, you can leave the hospital 2 – 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia.

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary; however, we advise clients to allow 4 – 6 weeks for post-surgery recovery. Clients must rest for 5 days after Breast Explant surgery. Clients who have experienced capsular contracture may experience more discomfort & a slightly longer recovery. While clients who undergo an Explant with a Breast Lift may feel tight & heavy for a few weeks.

During recovery, no returning to work for 5 days after surgery and no driving for 1 week after surgery. Clients can return to normal activities & moderate exercise after 6 weeks. For optimal healing, post-surgery support garments must be worn for 6 weeks.

When breast implants are removed & not replaced, it can take 2 -3 weeks for the breasts to regain their volume.

Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 3 – 6 months. During this time, the scarring, which is often inconspicuous, will begin to fade and breasts settle into their new position.

4.6 Rhinoplasty

In Australia, Rhinoplasty is typically a day surgery procedure. So, assuming good general health, clients can leave the hospital 2 to 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia. In some cases however, a short hospital stay may be required.

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary; however, we advise clients to allow 6 weeks for recovery after a Rhinoplasty procedure. This includes 2 weeks of rest. A nose splint must be worn for the first week. Bruising, particularly around the eyes, and swelling can last for 2 weeks. Clients can generally resume normal activities, including work and light exercise after 2 weeks. Strenuous activities and contact sports must be avoided for at least 6 weeks.

Clients will need to be patient for their final result. Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 6 – 12 months. During this time, prolonged swelling of the tip and bridge of the nose should reside.

4.7 Facelift

In Australia, a Facelift is considered a day surgery procedure. Assuming good general health, clients can leave the hospital 2 to 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia.

Recovery periods vary; however, we advise clients to allow 4 – 6 weeks for post-surgery recovery. This includes 2 weeks of rest following surgery. The face is bandaged for 24 hours. Once bandages are removed, a chin strap may be used to provide support. Drains will be used for 1 – 2 days after surgery to collect excess blood & fluid . Bruising, swelling & numbness around the face & ears should start to dissipate after the first week. Clients will need to keep their head elevated for 2 weeks. Most clients can return to work 2 weeks after surgery. Light to moderate exercise can also resume at this time.

Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 4 – 6 months. During this time, numbness in the face and ears should start to subside.

4.8 Eyelid Lift (Blepharoplasty)

In Australia, Eyelid Lift are typically considered a day surgery procedure. So assuming good general health, clients can leave the hospital 2 – 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia. This may change depending on the focus of the Eyelid Lift (upper eyelid, lower eyelid, or both) and any additional procedures required (eg Facelift).

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary; however, we advise clients to allow 2 weeks for post-surgery recovery. This includes 5 – 7 days of rest following surgery. Light sensitivity is common & clients may need to wear sunglasses for 2 – 3 days. In most cases, driving can resume 4 to 5 days after surgery. In most cases, clients can return to work after 7 to 10 days.

Activities that raise the blood pressure (bending, lifting, straining, strenuous exercise) must be avoided for 3 weeks.

Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 3 weeks. During this time, bruising & swelling should subside.

4.9 Ear Pinning (Otoplasty)

In Australia, Ear Pinning is typically considered a day surgery procedure. So assuming good general health, clients can leave the hospital 2 to 3 hours after they wake from general anaesthesia. Children are required to stay in hospital overnight.

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary; however, we advise clients to allow 2 – 3 weeks for post-surgery recovery. This includes 48 hours of rest following surgery.

The results of an Ear Pinning procedure are visible immediately. Bruising will emerge in the first few days. A post-operative head band must be worn for 10 – 12 days. While clients can return to work/school 48 hours after the procedure, they typically wait 2 weeks for the dressings to be removed and the bruising to subside. Care must be taken to not scratch the ears as this could disrupt recovery.

Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 4 weeks. During this time, any scarring (which is typically well concealed) and swelling will subside.

4.10 Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Time spent in hospital following a Tummy Tuck varies from patient to patient. While some clients can leave hospital 2 to 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia, others may require a short hospital stay (up to 3 days).

Recovery periods also vary from person to person; however, we advise clients to allow 4 – 6 weeks for post-surgery recovery. Clients must rest for 2 weeks. A catheter & drains will be in place for the first few days. It may be difficult to stand up straight in the week following surgery. Until advised by your Surgeon, wounds must be kept dry. Clients must not drive for 4 weeks and no strenuous exercise (including sit-ups & sexual intercourse) for 6 weeks. Changes in skin sensation are part of the healing process. In most cases, it will improve over the first few months. Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 6 – 12 months. During this time, swelling will subside, & scars will begin to fade.

4.11 Arm Lift

In Australia, Arm Lift is generally considered day surgery. So assuming good health, clients can leave the hospital 2 to 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia.

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary from person to person; however, we advise clients to allow 6 weeks for post-surgery recovery after an Arm Lift. This includes 2 weeks of rest. To aid recovery, clients must keep their arms elevated for 3 days after surgery & should restrict arm movement as much as possible. Post-operative dressings must be worn for 2 – 3 weeks. Light activities can resume in the first week, and most clients can return to work 7 to 10 days after surgery. Your Surgeon will advise when you are able to drive.

Strenuous activity, heavy lifting and swimming must be avoided for up to 6 weeks. During this time, a compression garment must also be worn.

The results of an Arm Lift are visible immediately; however, become more pronounced once swelling subsides. Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 3 months, during which time scars will begin to fade.

4.12 Thigh Lift

In Australia, Thigh Lift is typically considered a day surgery procedure and assuming good general health, clients can leave the hospital 2 to 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia.

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary from person to person; however, we advise clients to allow 6 weeks for post-surgery recovery. This includes 2 weeks of rest.

Following surgery, clients will experience bruising and swelling. It may take 2 – 3 weeks before clients can resume normal activities, including work or driving. We recommend clients have someone stay with them during this time to assist with moving around the house. Clients must wear compression garments for 6 weeks.

Swelling may take up to 10 weeks to subside. After which time the results will be completely visible. Surgeons will need to assess healing before strenuous exercise, jogging and swimming can recommence.

Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 3 – 6 months. During this time, scars will begin to fade and clients will start to feel the effects of a full recovery at this point.

4.13 Labiaplasty

In Australia, Labiaplasty is typically regarded as day surgery. So, assuming good general health, clients can leave the hospital 2 – 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia.

Plastic Surgery Recovery periods vary from person to person; however, we advise clients to allow up to 6 weeks for post-surgery recovery. Clients must rest for 2 weeks. Swelling & bruising will emerge in the first week & a small amount of bleeding is normal. A barrier ointment must be applied twice a day as prescribed. In most cases normal activities, including work can be reintroduced 10 days after surgery. Avoid vigorous exercise & sexual activity until a surgeon advises as increased blood flow in the genital area can induce complications.

Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 3 – 6 weeks. During this time, results will start to show. Full results will be visible 6 months after surgery.

4.14 Male Breast Reduction ( Gynaecomastia)

In Australia, Male Breast Reduction is typically considered day surgery procedures. So assuming good general health, clients can leave the hospital 2 – 3 hours after they wake from anaesthesia.

Recovery periods vary from person to person; however, we advise clients to allow up to 5 weeks for post-surgery recovery. Clients must rest for 2 days after surgery.

Clients can typically return to work 1 to 2 days after surgery, depending on the nature of their work. Heavy lifting and contact sports should be avoided for at least 4 weeks and upper limb exercises should be approached gradually. Weight training and swimming should be avoided until the surgeon advises. Healing is an individual process but generally takes place over 3 – 6 months.

Disclaimer

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