Plastic surgery can be very safe, but if you don’t do it right, it can be a dangerous and even deadly experience. There are countless stories of men and women who cut corners with their surgeries and ended up scarred, maimed or worse. Saving a few dollars isn’t worth risking a cosmetic surgery disaster. Here’s what you need to know to avoid botched cosmetic surgeries.
When Plastic Surgery Goes Wrong
There are many tales of plastic surgery gone wrong, but let’s take a look at a few that stood out below:
- Murder Charges after Buttocks Enhancement: A former madam was recently sentenced to prison after the death of one of her dancers. She injected nearly half a gallon of silicone into the bottom of a woman who later passed away. She had no medical training and no medical license. The treatments were often performed in hotels or at parties using equipment like a plastic water bottle filled with silicone, plastic cups and super glue.
- Death after Medical Tourism: Last year, several women died after traveling out of the country for cosmetic surgeries. One New York woman died of a pulmonary embolism during breast reduction surgery in the Dominican Republic. Another woman died during a tummy tuck and liposuction.
- Problems after Surgery: Death isn’t the only risk you can face. One woman had to visit a U.S. surgeon after returning from a breast augmentation overseas. Her surgeon found a cloth inside of her breast next to the implant, the source of her discomfort.
These stories share a common element. The women in these stories were receiving plastic surgery either out of the United States or from an unlicensed practitioner. Saving a little money isn’t worth the risk. Medical tourism can be very dangerous.
What Can You Do?
Plastic surgery can be safe, but there are important things you need to do before getting a procedure.
- Choose a Board-Certified Surgeon: You don’t have to be a plastic surgeon to perform cosmetic surgeries. Only board-certified plastic surgeons have the extensive training and experience in performing cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.
- Vet Your Doctor: Take the time to meet with and vet your doctor before agreeing to surgery. Ask questions. Look at past examples of work. Check your surgeon’s credentials.
- Avoid Medical Tourism: Medical tourism can save money, but it isn’t worth the risk. Save up for your procedure a little longer and work with a surgeon you trust.
- Avoid Unlicensed Practitioners: Don’t opt for an unlicensed practitioner or a procedure that isn’t approved. When you work with a licensed surgeon and receive an approved procedure, you can greatly minimize your risk.
- Ask about Risks: Plastic surgery can be very safe, but there are risks. Talk with your surgeon about the risks before surgery and make an informed decision. Some procedures are riskier than others.
For a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Portland Oregon area, come see Dr. Waldorf. Call us today at 503-646-0101 and schedule your consultation.