Cosmetic surgery and aesthetic procedures are becoming increasingly popular and there are now multiple clinics up and down the country that offer a wide variety of services. Many providers advertise special offers and discounts, making it easier than ever to enhance your look at a reasonable cost. 

But what are the most dangerous procedures and what can be done to mitigate such risks?

As well as being fully informed about your chosen procedure you should balance the pros and cons and consider if the benefits outweigh the risks. Clinics and surgeons have a duty of care to all clients and can face medical negligence claims if something goes wrong that could have been prevented. 

Consider the clinic 

You should carry out thorough research on the clinic, paying particular attention to reviews and testimonials, the qualifications of the surgeons and the aftercare services offered. 

Ensure your chosen professional is a member of a registered association and take a look at their portfolio, if available, to get an idea of the quality of the work .You should also get an idea of the costs involved and prices should be made available upfront to avoid any nasty surprises. 

Many clinics offer a no-obligation consultation where you have an initial appointment to discuss your needs, and which allows the opportunity to raise any concerns. 

What are the most dangerous procedures? 

While breast surgery continues to increase, with breast reductions being the most common procedure, the following procedures are considered to be the most risky: 

Liposuction

A procedure that aims to remove fat deposits from areas of the body, this can put patients at risk of bloods clots, infection, numbness and even organ damage. Common side effects include swelling and inflammation but these should disappear within a few weeks after surgery. 

Tummy tuck

Also knows as abdominoplasty, this involves the removal of skin and fat from the abdomen. Severe risks include bleeding under the skin, fluid collecting under the skin and difficulty breathing. 

Facial surgery

There are many different types of surgery that can be carried out on the face but jaw procedures tend to carry the most risk due to the amount of nerves present. Airway obstruction, nerve damage, numbness, bleeding, swelling and infection are uncommon but are serious complications that should be considered should you choose to undergo this type of procedure. 

Body lifts

These are among the highest risk procedures due to the involvement of multiple body areas and the risks of lengthy anaesthesia. The stomach, buttocks and thighs are targeted to enhance the appearance of the entire body. 

While complications are generally rare, it’s important to be aware of the risks of such procedures so you can make the right decision for you.