It is this balance of artistry, surgical skills and medical judgment, blended with the insights of collaboration, that enables each surgeon to apply the talents and wisdom of both to the patient's benefit. It is normal to 'have the blues' after an operation, as well as bruising and some swelling. Generally, complications are caused by insufficient blood flow in soft tissue areas, excessive bleeding, infection, and improper healing. The surgeon focuses on preventing the development of complications, however rarely they may occur, by using the appropriate techniques. It is crucial, however, that the patient cooperates and follows the surgeon's directives prior to surgery.
Complications usually stem from the patient's existing health problems or bad lifestyle habits.
They can be prevented. For instance, slow recovery, or in rare cases, partial loss of tissue, are often associated with smoking or obesity. Therefore it is very important to avoid smoking as long as possible before and after any operation, especially for procedures requiring the 'lifting' of skin-particularly in the case of a facelift, breast or abdomen lift.