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Hospital and Surgery Admissions
Risks & Complications of Surgery
Hospital and Surgery Admissions
Hospitals
- Sydney Adventist Hospital, Wahroonga – www.sah.org.au
- San Day Surgery, Hornsby (overnight facility) – www.sandaysurgery.com.au
- Pittwater Day Surgery, Mona Vale (consulting rooms & day surgery)- www.pittwaterdaysurgery.com.au
- North Shore Specialist Day Hospital – Level 1, 176 Pacific Highway Greenwich- www.nssdh.com.au
- Castlecrag Private Hospital – 150 Edinburgh Rd, Castlecrag https://www.castlecragprivate.com.au/
Medications to Avoid Pre-operatively
Please read the recommendations regarding Medication to be Avoided Pre-operatively »
Procedures
For most surgery procedures Dr Flood will see you for an initial consultation. At that time you receive information packs and an estimate of fees. Some patients like to come back for a second consultation, which is fine. Once you decide to proceed with your operation and decide on a hospital/day surgery the staff will organise a date for you. You are then given a pack containing your admission papers, your consent and your pre and post op instructions.
If you are having a procedure that you receive Medicare item numbers for, please make sure you call Medicare and your health fund so you know what your out of pocket expenses will be and whether you have to pay an excess for your hospital/day surgery stay.
These days there are so many funds with so many different contribution plans that it is worth checking, so you know well ahead of time.
Payment
We have a pre-payment policy for all cosmetic procedures. This is made 10 days prior to your procedure by cash, eftpos or credit card, either in person or over the phone.
For all procedures that have a Medicare item number, payment is due in full at your first post-op visit.
Risks and Complications of Surgery
Scarring
The formation of scars is a typical aspect of the healing process after surgery. The way scars look and their severity are influenced by one’s skin type, genetic background, and the details of the surgical cut. Some individuals might see more noticeable scarring, such as hypertrophic or keloid scars. If you’re worried about scarring, it’s wise to discuss treatment options with your surgeon.
Infection: There’s always a risk of infection following any surgical operation. Signs of infection include redness, intensified pain, the presence of pus, and wounds that fail to heal. While surgeons follow rigorous cleanliness protocols, it’s crucial for patients to strictly adhere to aftercare instructions. Timely detection and the use of antibiotics play a vital role in infection control.
Pain
It’s normal to feel pain after surgery, though its intensity and how long it lasts can vary depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s own tolerance for pain. While some level of discomfort is to be expected, ongoing or intense pain could indicate an underlying issue that requires quick medical attention. Surgeons can offer advice on managing pain, including medication and rest strategies.
Bleeding
Bleeding after surgery can occur on the surface (external) or inside the body (internal, or hematoma), visible through symptoms like bleeding, pain, pressure, or swelling. Any out-of-the-ordinary bleeding or swelling post-operation is a signal for immediate medical intervention.
Seroma
A seroma is a pocket of lymph fluid that can accumulate under the skin after surgery, typically because of damage to the lymph vessels. It can cause symptoms like pain, pressure, or the leakage of fluid. Although seromas are usually minor issues, they sometimes require drainage or additional treatments to heal properly.
Anesthetic Complications
Using anesthesia to manage pain during surgery comes with its own set of risks, including allergic reactions, damage from intubation, malignant hyperthermia, and problems with blood pressure or breathing. It’s important to closely monitor patients during surgery to quickly address any complications that arise.
Undesirable Cosmetic Results
There’s a possibility that plastic surgery might not yield the expected results, such as in cases of asymmetry or skin puckering. Having realistic expectations and engaging in detailed discussions with your surgeon can help in managing these expectations. While revision surgery can sometimes correct unsatisfactory results, it’s not always an option.
Nerve Damage
Surgery may occasionally lead to nerve damage, manifesting as numbness, tingling, or a loss of sensation. While nerve function often gradually returns, there’s a chance of permanent damage. It’s crucial to report any abnormal sensations after surgery to your medical team immediately.
Bruising and Swelling
It’s common to experience bruising and swelling after surgery, but these symptoms should be carefully monitored. If bruising or swelling is excessive or prolonged, it might require medical attention. Patients are advised to follow aftercare instructions carefully, such as keeping the affected area elevated and applying cold compresses. Severe or lingering bruising and swelling should be reported to your healthcare provider.