Plastic Surgery Complications: A Review for Emergency Clinicians

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Emergency Medicine
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Aesthetic surgical procedures are increasing, with millions performed annually in the US.
• Common procedures include breast and abdominal surgeries, liposuction, and injections.
• Emergency clinicians must manage diverse postoperative complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide guiding principles for managing acute complications of aesthetic surgery.
• To enhance emergency clinician preparedness for cosmetic surgery-related emergencies.

Main Methods:

• Review of common aesthetic surgical procedures.
• Identification and categorization of potential postoperative complications.
• Outline of management strategies for acute complications.

Main Results:

• Detailed list of potential complications: infections, thromboembolic events, skin necrosis, hemorrhage, pulmonary edema, fat embolism syndrome, bowel perforation, intra-abdominal injury, seroma, and local anesthetic systemic toxicity.
• Emphasis on the need for prompt recognition and intervention.

Conclusions:

• Understanding and managing acute complications is crucial for optimizing patient care after aesthetic surgery.
• Preparedness of emergency clinicians is vital for effective patient management.