Be Informed Before Having a Cosmetic Surgery Procedure
Before deciding to undergo any cosmetic surgery procedure, it’s important to reflect carefully and ask key questions, both of yourself and your prospective Specialist Plastic Surgeon. Even procedures that may seem straightforward carry potential risks and complications. Understanding the entire process, including the possible outcomes and limitations, is essential to making an informed decision.
For further information, please review the details below or contact our team if you would like clarification on any aspect of the treatment or consent process.
Knowing the Risks of Surgery
All surgical procedures carry risks and the potential for complications. While Dr Milovic is extensively trained and experienced with a comprehensive array of plastic surgery procedures and utilises advanced techniques to help mitigate those risks, patients considering treatment should always be fully aware of them beforehand. Dr Milovic will go over all risks and potential complications associated with the procedure during the initial consultation, and we are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Some of the general risks of surgery include, but are not limited to:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Excessive bleeding
- Pain/discomfort
- Nerve damage
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Complications relating to anaesthesia
- Seroma (a growth/lump near the surgery site that may become infectious)
- Unsatisfactory cosmetic results
- Death
You can also find information on specific risks associated with various surgical procedures on our website.
Questions to Ask Before Your Surgery
You may feel confident in your research, but if you are unsure about any aspect of your care, the questions below can serve as a helpful guide. Cosmetic surgery is a personal choice, and it’s important to make well-informed decisions. Every procedure carries unique risks and considerations. Being open about your medical history and any previous surgeries is essential to ensuring your safety and receiving appropriate advice from your surgeon.
- Are you a Specialist Plastic Surgeon? If not, what are your qualifications?
- Are you a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS)? If so, in what speciality is your Fellowship? Is it Plastic Surgery?
- Are you a Member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)?
- Do you have any conditions on your medical registration? (You can also check on the AHPRA website)
- Will the surgery be performed in an accredited facility?
- Will a qualified anaesthetist administer the anaesthetic and/or sedation? Are those fees included in the surgical fee estimate?
- Do you have a consent form and other information outlining the procedure for me to review?
- Am I able to cancel my procedure without onerous financial consequences?
- Will I need time off of work?
- Are there any post-operative side effects?
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure?
- What is the total estimated cost, and what does it include (e.g., surgeon’s fees, hospital fees, anaesthetic, follow-up care)?
- Will there be visible scarring? How can this be managed post-operatively?
- What is your approach to post-operative care, and is there an additional charge?
- Do I have any options other than surgery?
- What should I do if I’m not happy with the results?
- How can I provide feedback or make a complaint if I have concerns before or after the procedure? Can you explain the process and how to contact AHPRA or other relevant authorities if needed?
Adapted from Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, Essential Information for Patients.