Managing complications following cosmetic surgery after the COVID pandemic: A study of a year at an NHS plastic surgery unit

Abstract

The study was an analysis of patients managed by plastic surgery services at Heatherwood and Wexham Park hospitals during the calendar year 2022 for complications following cosmetic surgeries performed both internationally and within the United Kingdom. Patients were identified via local databases and encounters and management confirmed with retrospective studies of patient electronic medical records. 23 patients were managed during the year 2022 for complications post cosmetic surgery. 91% (n=21) of complications were related to breast cosmetic surgery and/or abdominoplasties. 78% (n=18) of patients presented within the first two months following their procedure. The most common complications identified were wound dehiscence 43% (n=10), post-operative infection 39% (n=9) and seromas 30% (n=7). The most common country selected for surgery by patients was Turkey with 48% (n=11) of managed patients. 52% (n=12) of cases were managed conservatively and 48% (n=11) of cases required invasive procedures including surgery. 87% (n=20) of patients were discharged with completed treatment. Cosmetic surgery and tourism are an in-demand phenomenon and appear here to stay. The stringent regulatory and legal processes in place in the UK may not be applicable abroad to the detriment of patient care. Greater effort is needed to increase public awareness to the risks involved in seeking international options and how to self-screen suitable clinics. Ongoing current national auditing may need to be expanded to understand the true impact on NHS units in dealing with the aftermath of these surgical expeditions.