General Risks of Any Plastic Surgery

1. Bleeding. Blood loss is minimal during the facial procedure but over-activity during the postoperative period may cause some bleeding. You must not lift, strain, stoop or bend over for 5-6 weeks after your surgery as this can cause you to have unexpected bleeding which may necessitate having to return to the operating room for additional surgery. You should also not lift anything heavier than a regular plate of food.

2. Infection. You will have antibiotics to take after your surgery to minimize the risk of infection. Infection is rare after facial surgery, however, if you should experience unusual pain or redness you should call your surgeon.

3. Blood pressure problems. If you currently take medication for your blood pressure you must continue taking it throughout your recovery period. Your anesthetist will be monitoring your blood pressure throughout your surgery.

4. Allergic reactions.

5. Anesthesia problems. You will be given medication during your surgery to prevent nausea during your recovery period. In addition, you will be given specific prescriptions to take should you experience nausea during your postoperative period.

6. Blood clots in the legs and lungs. During your surgery your surgeon will be using special "foot pumps" to gently massage your feet during your procedure to minimize the risk of blood clots. After your surgery you will have anti-embolus (elastic) stockings applied. It is important that you keep these stockings on for the first week after your surgery. You may remove them daily in order to bathe your legs, but they must be worn until you are actively moving around in your home or hotel room. You should also get up and walk around frequently. When lying or sitting, you should pump your feet up and down as this helps to minimize the risk of blood clots. If you experience pain or swelling in one leg during your postoperative period, or if one leg feels tender to touch, you should contact your surgeon immediately.

7. Constipation. This is especially common because of your pain medication and decreased activity. It is wise to start and "over-the-counter" stool softener or laxative before and after surgery, especially if it tends to be a problem for you.

8. Additional or "touchup" surgery. Healing after surgery is not an exact science nor 100% predictable. This may result in a delay in your return to work or normal activities, or it may result in the need for additional surgery and/or hospitalization along with their additional costs.

9. There may be other uncommon or unknown problems that we have not anticipated.

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