While many people seek cosmetic surgery to enhance their appearance, the decision to undergo a procedure is never one to take lightly. Cosmetic surgery procedures come with health risks, with some categorised among the most dangerous plastic surgeries. Unfortunately, these risks are not always explained properly by those administering the treatment, which can lead to considerable stress.

Certain high-risk cosmetic procedures come with greater chances of serious complications, and in some cases, fatal outcomes. Here, we examine five of the riskiest cosmetic procedures and outline some of their potential dangers. By getting the right information about the pitfalls of surgery, patients will be in a better position to make a decision that’s right for them.

Brazilian bum lifts (BBL)

The BBL, sometimes called the Brazilian butt lift, has been identified by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) as one of the most dangerous cosmetic surgeries, with the highest fatality rate of any aesthetic procedure. Studies indicate that as many as one in 3,000 patients have died as a result of complications from the surgery.

The procedure involves removing fat deposits from one part of the body and injecting this fat into the buttocks, in order to change their shape and overall appearance. The BBL has become a highly fashionable and popular procedure, thanks to growing celebrity trends and social media imagery. This surge in demand has resulted in many Brits going abroad to receive the treatment at a lower cost, but this often increases the risk of botched cosmetic surgery due to inadequate surgical standards and post-operative care.

One of the most severe risks associated with BBL surgery is a pulmonary fat embolism, a potentially fatal condition where fat enters the bloodstream and blocks the lungs. This can occur if fat is injected too deeply into the muscle, where it may reach major blood vessels.

Such are the risks associated with BBL procedures, that BAAPS called on its own members to cease offering the procedure until more research could be conducted into its safety.

Due to these risks, BAAPS previously advised its members to stop performing BBL procedures until more research could be conducted to improve patient safety. Despite increased awareness, the association continues to call for urgent regulation of BBL procedures in the UK, warning that unregulated or inexperienced practitioners put patients in significant danger.

Tummy tucks

Tummy tucks are one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures for both men and women. However, they are among the most dangerous plastic surgeries due to the considerable amount of risk involved in the procedure. Many people seeking this surgery are unaware of the potential cosmetic surgery complications that can arise, particularly if the procedure is not performed correctly.

Also known as abdominoplasty, this aesthetic plastic surgery involves the removal of unwanted fat and excess skin from the abdomen, followed by tightening of the remaining skin to create a smoother, firmer appearance. While the procedure is often chosen after significant weight loss or pregnancy, it is an invasive operation that puts a great deal of strain on the body.

One of the most serious risks associated with tummy tuck surgery is the formation of blood clots, which can travel to the lungs and cause life-threatening complications. Other risks include infections, poor wound healing, and botched cosmetic surgery results, which may require reconstructive surgery to correct.

Individuals who may be at higher risk - including older patients, those with underlying health conditions, or people who have recently undergone another major procedure such as breast augmentation surgery or BBL surgery - should carefully consider whether a tummy tuck is the right option for them. Consulting with a highly qualified surgeon and understanding the risks is essential before undergoing this procedure.

Liposuction

Liposuction is often seen as a simple weight loss solution, but in reality, it is a complex aesthetic plastic surgery procedure that carries several risks. While it can effectively remove unwanted fat from specific areas of the body, it is not a substitute for diet and exercise, and it should not be taken lightly.

This cosmetic surgery procedure is generally safe when performed by a qualified professional. However, complications can arise, particularly if the surgery is carried out incorrectly. This can result in serious infections, blood clots, fat clogs in the lungs or perforation of the stomach wall. Additionally, the shift in body fluid composition can also cause dehydration and hypovolemic shock.

In some cases, poor technique or excessive fat removal can lead to irregular body contours, nerve damage or the need for reconstructive surgery to correct deformities. In rare instances, severe complications have resulted in fatalities, making it essential for patients to fully understand the risks before proceeding with the surgery.

Facial reconstruction

Facial reconstruction is a category of surgery that’s broad enough to encompass a wide range of different processes, some of which are more complex than others. Some surgeries are purely for aesthetic reasons, while others are required after a previous trauma or injury.

One of the most dangerous procedures within this category is orthognathic surgery, which involves reshaping and structuring the jaw. This area is populated by several critical blood vessels, making the margin for error extremely narrow.

However, even simple procedures like liquid silicone facial injections, a type of dermal filler, can pose their own risks, especially since these are often offered by practitioners who lack the proper training and qualifications. When applied incorrectly, these can lead to swelling and bad reactions from the immune system, with the end result being disfigurement. As such, it's vital to ensure that your practitioner is properly accredited before you undergo this procedure.

Body lifts

Body lifts are among the most intensive forms of cosmetic surgery, and involve the removal of considerable amounts of excess skin and soft tissue around the abdomen, buttocks, lower back, thighs and breasts. This procedure may require lifting of the entire abdominal skin, repositioning of the belly button and the tightening of the abdominal muscles.

Often performed on people with excess skin, including those who have experienced considerable weight loss, the process consists of several different procedures - including liposuction, tummy tucks and buttock lifts - and can take up to eight hours. The patient must remain anaesthetised throughout this time, which increases the risk of heart problems, in addition to the dangers inherent to all of the individual procedures a body lift encompasses.

Body lifts also take a long time to recover from, meaning that anyone considering this type of surgery should only do so after an in-depth discussion with a trained medical professional about whether the procedure is truly necessary.

How can I minimise the risks?

While there is no way to completely remove the risks when undergoing one of the cosmetic procedures outlined above, seeking the services of a reputable, qualified surgeon will help to reduce the chances that something could go wrong.

At Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors, we advise individuals who are thinking about surgery to follow these steps:

• Seek recommendations from friends or family members who may have undergone a similar procedure to the one you are looking to get. You can also gain valuable information from:

  • Your GP

  • The General Medical Council’s specialist register

  • The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeons

  • The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons

  • Royal College of Surgeons

• Check the qualifications of the surgeon in question

• Be prepared to pay - cosmetic procedures are expensive, and this is justified by their complex nature and the level of skill involved with performing such a major operation

• Ask the questions you need before surgery

Find out more about selecting a safe cosmetic surgeon in our online guide.

If you have experienced problems following surgery as a result of clinical negligence, you can call us on 0808 252 7178 or complete our contact form to speak to us and find out if you can make a compensation claim.