Now, invasive procedures like BBL do carry real risks, as confirmed by a U.S. study of cosmetic surgery deaths in the Dominican Republic from 2009 to 2022, which reported 93 fatalities mostly due to fat embolisms and blood clots.
Still, while that statistic can feel alarming, noninvasive procedures, which are far more common, are also far safer.
Anyway, this article will break down everything you should know about safety risks in both invasive and non-invasive popular cosmetic procedures.
Keep reading to learn how common complications really are, what typically causes them, which procedures tend to carry higher risks, and to find some practical tips for pre- and post-procedure care.
How Common Are Complications in Cosmetic Procedures?
The truth is that modern techniques and skilled doctors make complications in popular cosmetic procedures exceptionally rare.
However, no procedure is completely risk-free.
Common hiccups include:
infections, often from poor aftercare
scarring, which depends on your skin type
bruising or bleeding if blood vessels are nicked
redness, temporary irritations, pigmentation changes, burn from laser hair removal, etc.
Which Cosmetic Procedures Are Riskier Than Others?
As logic dictates, non-invasive treatments like laser hair removal, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion are generally low-risk. Side effects are also usually mild and temporary.On the other hand, surgical procedures carry more serious risks.
Brazilian butt lifts top the list, with the highest fatality rate due to pulmonary fat embolisms. Tummy tucks are right next to them and can lead to blood clots, infections, or poor wound healing (especially in patients with health conditions or smokers).
Liposuction and facial surgeries, like jaw or reconstruction work, also tend to involve vascular risks that can’t be ignored.
The overall rule of thumb is: The more invasive the procedure, the higher the stakes.
What’s the Most Common Cause of Complications in Cosmetic Procedures?
When it comes to cosmetic procedures, most complications come down to three main factors:
technique
environment
patient health
Also, a sterile and hygienic environment matters. Clinics that cut corners on equipment maintenance or post-procedure care increase the risk of infections and other complications, but such clinics should obviously be avoided.
Finally, patient factors like smoking, underlying health conditions, and even your skin type can affect how your body reacts or heals. In fact, skipping pre-op evaluations or not disclosing health issues is surprisingly listed as one of the most common sources of problems arising from cosmetic surgeries.
Still, most complications are preventable, as long as you choose experienced providers and follow pre- and post-care instructions.
Pre- and Post-Op Care Tips for Safe Cosmetic Procedures
Staying safe during cosmetic procedures is just as much about the skill of the person performing the procedures as it is about what you do before and after.First, you'll want to always pick an accredited clinic with certified professionals.
Next, don’t skip the pre-procedure evaluation. Be honest about your medical history, medications, and lifestyle habits things like smoking or certain prescriptions that seriously affect healing.
On the day of your procedure, make sure sterile protocols are followed, and ask questions if you notice anything off.
After the procedure, stick to all post-op instructions. That means caring for wounds, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding anything that could interfere with healing, like sun exposure or strenuous activity.
Finally, stay informed about the procedure itself. Know the risks, understand the normal recovery process, and recognize warning signs that need medical attention.
Being proactive before and after your procedure helps you feel in control every step of the way.
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