Plastic surgeons warn patients of risk of procedures

People must weigh up procedures’ complications and dangers, experts say.

Dr Jay Calvert, a plastic surgeon from Beverly Hills, California, also works at the Aesthetica Clinic in Dubai. Pawan Singh / The National

DUBAI // Many patients view cosmetic surgery as a minor procedure and are not aware of the risks involved, plastic surgeons say.

The number of cosmetic surgery procedures is increasing. Rhinoplasty, various types of breast surgery, body contouring procedures and liposuction are among the popular procedures.

Doctors say that patients should consider the risks before opting for surgery.

“Cosmetic surgery is not risk-free, and carries the same general risks and complications as all surgeries do,” said Dr Allen Rezai, a surgeon with the Elite Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Group in Dubai.

The risks include wound infection, bleeding, blood clots, healing issues and scarring.

People considering having cosmetic surgery should weigh these risks by consulting plastic surgeons.

“To reduce the risks and complications, it is important to check the patients’ medical history for any contraindications, ensure that there are right indications for the desired procedure, and to request the necessary preoperative tests in a timely manner before the surgery,” he said.

Dr Jay Calvert is a plastic surgeon from California who regularly visits Dubai to operate at the Aesthetica clinic.

For complicated procedures such as rhinoplasty, patients should research their surgeon, he said.

Patients often seek second surgeries because they are not happy with the results.

“Many patients go to doctors without looking at their style of work. They approach a doctor who is well marketed or someone their friend referred,” said Dr Calvert.

“Some look for the best price but they should be warned that paying a lot does not mean good results and paying a little less does not necessarily lead to bad results.

“Find a surgeon who will give you the best results. Infection and surgical infections are among the biggest problems in plastic surgery and can ruin a good job.”

Dr Calvert said patients should always make sure that the surgeon has proper qualifications.

“Also, look at the before and after pictures, as every surgeon has their own style,” said Dr Calvert.

“If you don’t like the pictures, don’t go back to him or her. If you do like the pictures, you are in the right place. Your style must match with your doctor’s.

“When you go for a consultation, make sure the doctor and you can communicate well and you feel comfortable,” he said.

Dr Matteo Vigo, chief of surgery at American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Hospital, in Dubai, said all types of surgeries have varying levels of risk.

“Plastic surgery is not a game and it is not magic,” he said.

“The risks and the benefits must be balanced by the doctor who is evaluating the patient.”

Patients should also research the risks.

“In Europe, patients are always well informed about the surgery, the possibilities, the alternatives and the risks because they read a lot on the internet before coming to visit the surgeon,” said Dr Vigo.

“In the Middle East I have experienced that the patients sometimes read an article on a newspaper, or look at a photo on social media and they convince themselves that this is the solution for them. Most of the times they are referred by their friend.”