Cosmetic surgery has gained popularity as individuals seek to enhance their appearance and boost self-confidence. However, medical experts caution that these procedures are not suitable for everyone and carry inherent risks. It’s essential for prospective patients to thoroughly understand these risks and assess their medical fitness before proceeding.
Medical Fitness and Patient Selection
Not all individuals are ideal candidates for cosmetic surgery. Underlying health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, sickle cell disease, and heart ailments can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons emphasizes the importance of comprehensive patient evaluations to identify potential risk factors and ensure patient safety.
Dr. Bolaji Mofikoya, an Associate Professor at the Plastic Surgery Unit of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, highlights that poor patient selection can lead to adverse outcomes. He advises individuals considering cosmetic procedures to be well-informed about their health status and to consult qualified professionals. Dr. Mofikoya states, “Undergoing a cosmetic procedure should not be taken lightly. There have been rare instances where death can occur following cosmetic surgery and any other kind of surgery in Nigeria as well as all other countries in the world.”
Potential Risks and Complications
Cosmetic surgeries, like all surgical procedures, carry potential risks. Complications can include infection, excessive bleeding, scarring, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Specific procedures may have unique risks:
- Breast Surgery: Procedures such as breast augmentation or reduction can affect nipple sensation and may impair breastfeeding capabilities. However, there is no scientific evidence linking these surgeries to an increased risk of breast cancer.
- Buttock Augmentation: This procedure carries risks including pain, swelling, infection, and the potential for fat embolism—a serious condition where fat enters the bloodstream and lungs. Patients are often advised to avoid sitting and limit physical activity for several days post-surgery.
- Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): Potential complications include bleeding, infection, and tissue necrosis leading to wound breakdown. Excessive scarring may occur in certain individuals. It’s generally recommended to undergo this procedure after completing childbearing.
The Mayo Clinic advises that individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or those with diabetes may face higher risks of complications such as blood clots and delayed wound healing. Smoking also increases surgical risks and interferes with the healing process.
The Importance of Qualified Professionals and Accredited Facilities
The qualifications of the surgeon and the accreditation of the facility are critical factors in ensuring patient safety. Procedures performed by untrained personnel or in inadequately equipped facilities can lead to severe complications, including death. Dr. Mofikoya emphasizes the importance of verifying the credentials of both the surgeon and the facility, stating, “Research the procedure, research the personnel (don’t believe everything you read on the internet!!). Find out about the facility, find out about the anesthesia/anaesthetist staff, know about your health status, and ask the person if the procedure you want is suitable/safe for you.”
Tragic incidents underscore the importance of these precautions. In 2020, a Lagos-based cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Anuoluwapo Adepoju, was convicted over a failed plastic surgery that resulted in the death of a patient.
Similarly, in 2005, Nigeria’s First Lady, Stella Obasanjo, died from complications following an elective liposuction procedure in Spain.
Patient Responsibility and Informed Decision-Making
Prospective patients bear significant responsibility in ensuring their safety. This includes conducting thorough research, understanding the risks involved, and maintaining realistic expectations. The Cleveland Clinic advises individuals to be aware of both the physical and psychological changes that may result from cosmetic surgery, emphasizing that the procedures can lead to enhanced self-esteem but may not meet all personal expectations.
Conclusion
While cosmetic surgery can offer aesthetic and psychological benefits, it is imperative to approach these procedures with caution. Comprehensive medical evaluations, selection of qualified professionals, and informed decision-making are essential to minimize risks and ensure successful outcomes. Individuals considering cosmetic surgery should prioritize their health and safety above all else.
