Cosmetic plastic surgery is elective surgery, meaning people choose to go under the knife as opposed to treating an illness or a medical emergency, which may force people to have surgery. It’s for this reason that many people think cosmetic plastic surgery is less risky and free of complications.

While it is fair to say that having a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure in Australia is safer than overseas thanks to a more regulated industry, we need our patients to understand that every type of surgery comes with a certain risk of complications. We only work with the most experienced anaethetists, nurses, assistants, and of course, Plastic Surgeons, but sometimes things are out of our control as every body reacts differently to surgery.

When you come in for your consultation, you will be informed of all possible complications. These include allergic reactions, wound fluid collection, and hematomas among other minor issues. While it’s extremely rare for these things to happen, just being aware of the fact that they might happen, but that it’s not the end of the world even if they do, can help you feel calmer and better prepared.

When it comes to bruising for example, most patients are surprised how black and blue they look a few days after surgery. This may take a while to subside, but it will get better. With plastic surgery, you will most definitely look worse before you look better.

Other things that we find patients often don’t expect is how uncomfortable drains are. Drains are neccessary to drain the fluid your body produces while healing. They therefore aid in reducing swelling and will help you look normal again faster.

Very rarely, some patients might experience minor post-op complications, such as bleeding or inflammation. We understand this can be scary, and you may feel like the unluckiest person in the world, but rest assured that our doctors and the team will be there for you along the way to make sure everything returns back to normal. With over 20 years of experience, there is almost nothing Dr Nettle hasn’t seen, which means he knows exactly what to do. If you follow our pre- and post-operative instructions and trust our team with their advice, there is nothing standing in the way of your road to recovery.

Being realistic and understanding that surgery – even if it’s cosmetic – can always take unexpected turns is important. But by choosing an ASAPS qualified Plastic Surgeon like Dr Nettle, you can be sure to be in the best hands from the minute you walk into our clinic for your consultation to the moment you walk out of the door after your last post-op appointment.

If you’d like to learn more about the plastic surgery journey you will go through, our Plastic Surgery Guide is a good read.