Safety

The Importance of Safety in Plastic Surgery

Safety in plastic surgery is ensured by the doctor, but the patient makes the choice of a specific doctor. The question arises, how to make the right choice? What elements of a doctor's education and work should be considered to make a „safe choice”?
Safety in plastic surgery is synonymous with exercising the utmost care, which includes:

• Surgeon's education and experience.
• Reliable information for the patient.
• Ensuring continuity of care.

Of course, the place where the procedure is performed and the qualifications of the entire clinic staff should meet all formal requirements – the clinic must be adapted to perform aesthetic plastic surgery procedures, and appropriate certificates should be available at all times.

Education and qualifications of a plastic surgeon

Removing external signs of aging and improving appearance is an inherent part of plastic surgery. The title of specialist in plastic surgery is obtained after passing a state examination consisting of three stages:

• Practical examination – performing a plastic surgery operation.
• Test examination – 120 questions covering all material related to plastic surgery.
• Oral examination – 5 questions testing the ability to solve clinical problems (including at least one related to aesthetic surgery).

The examination can be taken after completing a specialist internship, passing mandatory courses (including an aesthetic surgery course), and independently performing 400 plastic surgery operations, including aesthetic procedures.
A list of plastic surgery specialists is available on the website of the Polish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery – www.ptchprie.pl. Before the procedure, it is worth checking whether the given doctor is on this list.

Aesthetic Surgery vs. Other Specialties

Aesthetic surgery is an integral part of plastic surgery and does not exist as a standalone specialty. Aesthetic procedures are performed not only by plastic surgeons but also by doctors of other specialties (e.g., general surgeons, laryngologists, dermatologists). Every doctor performing such operations should clearly inform the patient about their qualifications – they should not use the term „aesthetic surgeon,” as formally such a specialty does not exist.

Indications and contraindications for aesthetic procedures

Aesthetic surgery focuses on improving appearance and removing external signs of aging. These procedures are not life-saving – their goal is to improve the patient's well-being. The risk of surgery should be average, and the patient's overall physical and mental health should be good, confirmed by examinations.
Increased risk may result from co-existing diseases, such as hypertension or heart disease. In such cases, surgery is possible only with good control of the disease and the consent of the treating physician.

Examples of combining aesthetic and reconstructive goals

Often, aesthetic procedures also serve a health function. Examples:

• Rhinoplasty – improvement of appearance and often also the patency of the airways.
• Breast reduction surgery – improvement of shape and reduction of strain on the spine and posture.

A plastic surgeon can combine aesthetic and health goals in one procedure.

Surgeon's experience

A specialist title is the basis for performing aesthetic operations, but practical experience is equally important. It is worth asking how many specific operations the doctor performs annually – those who teach others usually have the most experience.

Consultation and preparation for the procedure

Surgery is only one stage of treatment. During the consultation, the doctor should:

• Listen to the patient's expectations.
• Examine the patient and present the realistic possibilities of plastic surgery.
• Discuss preparation for the procedure, its course, and recovery.
• Show „before and after” photos – preferably average results, not just the best ones.
• Inform about risks and possible complications.

Risks and complications

Every operation carries risks – including swelling, bruising, scars, pain, and sometimes hematomas, infections, or prolonged wound healing. In the case of breast implants, it is advisable to choose products from reputable companies with documented clinical studies.
The patient must be informed about all possible complications, including those with which the doctor has no personal experience. This information should also be provided in written form.

Ensuring continuity of care

Patient safety requires the surgeon to work in a team of at least two doctors, ensuring a substitute in case of illness or vacation. The patient should have 24/7 contact with the doctor during the postoperative period. The surgeon should also be able to treat any complications and perform corrective surgeries.

How to make a safe choice of doctor

A good choice of doctor is based on:

• Specialization and experience in aesthetic plastic surgery.
• Reliable, also written, information about the procedure and risks.
• Time to make a decision – a minimum of 2 weeks between consultation and surgery.
• Ability to ensure continuity of care.

The patient's role in the treatment process

A well-informed patient with realistic expectations is key to success.

• One satisfied patient is the best advertisement for a surgeon.
• One dissatisfied patient is a problem for the doctor and the entire industry.

An aware patient avoids places where safety is not a priority.