Understanding Risks and Recovery: Chin and Neck Liposuction

Introduction

At Cosmos Aesthetics, we believe in providing our patients with all the necessary information to make an informed decision about their healthcare. In this section, we explore the range of possible outcomes, risks, and possible complications associated with Liposuction of the chin and neck (“jawline”). Please keep in mind that individual results may vary, depending on various factors such as skin elasticity, patient age, ethnicity and preoperative symmetry and shape.

Risks of Liposuction to the Chin and Neck

Complications may arise with liposuction of the chin and neck, as with any surgical procedure. The following is a non-exhaustive list of potential complications associated with liposuction of the chin and neck:

1. Temporary swelling or bruising.
2. Fluid collection under the skin (Seroma) or extensive bruising, including collections of blood underneath the skin (Hematoma), which may require multiple drainage appointments with our nursing team.
3. Infections at the incision sites.
4. Permanent skin changes or irregularities, such as dimpling (“hail damage”), indentation, lumpiness, and/or hardness. Most of these issues improve and often settle over time.
5. Slight asymmetry in results.
6. Unacceptable scarring.
7. Hyperpigmentation or mottling, which can result in brown or red discolouration of the skin – again tends to improve with time.
8. Blisters or burns on the skin.
9. Loose skin that may not retract around the treated area.
10. Excessive pain.
11. Numbness, itchiness, and increased sensitivity in the area (Paraesthesia), all of which usually resolves over 6 weeks but can take longer.
12. Temporary asymmetrical smile.
13. Side effects from local anaesthesia.
14. Dizziness or fainting spells.
15. Allergic reactions.
16. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary emboli (PE), although these are not common. PE can lead to death. Please follow the instructions given to you by your doctor to reduce the risk of DVT.
17. There is always a chance that you might subsequently change your mind about an appearance after cosmetic surgery, or your priorities might change in time, and your procedure may not be easily reversible – so it is important that you thoroughly consider realistic outcomes for now and the years to come.

Please keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list of potential risks. We encourage you to speak with your doctor to understand all the potential risks associated with your procedure.

Recovery from Liposuction to the Chin and Neck

To facilitate a safe and smooth recovery process, we have compiled a list of post-operative instructions:

1. After the procedure, it is common for small incision holes to drain blood-stained fluid for up to a week. We recommend using old towels or puppy training pads for sleeping.
2. Garments We apply a compressive garment immediately after the procedure. This garment must be worn for 3 weeks in total: 1 week full-time and 2 weeks part-time. The first set of garments are included in the costs, but extra sets of garments are available for purchase at the Clinic.
3. Showering After Vaser liposuction to chin and neck, you should wait 24 hours.
4. Medication We routinely prescribe antibiotics, pain medication, anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea drugs, and laxatives. Please take these as directed.
5. Lymphatic Drainage Massages We recommend a total of 4 professional lymphatic drainage massages in the first two weeks post-surgery, to supplement you (and or partner) performing some daily massage for 6 weeks. For more information or to schedule a massage, please contact us directly or one of our recommended providers.
6. Follow-ups Follow-up appointments with the nursing team will be scheduled at week 1, week 2, week 6, 3 months, and 6 months post-surgery.
7. Exercise Heavy exercise should be avoided for 10 days if only chin and neck has been treated. After 3-4 days, you should be able to resume normal activities.
8. Discharge Upon discharge from the Clinic, you should return home and rest. It is crucial to be accompanied by a responsible adult for the rest of the day and overnight.

Remember, everyone’s recovery journey is unique and these guidelines provide a general frame of what to expect. Always consult with your doctor and follow their advice regarding your specific recovery process. Your health and safety are our top priority at Cosmos Aesthetics.

Recovery Times and Specific Requirements

After undergoing a liposuction procedure on your neck, you will generally need between 3-7 days off work. While most results are noticeable at the 6-week mark, the final outcomes may not be apparent until 3-6 months post-operatively. Strict adherence to pre-operative and post-operative instructions is essential for achieving the best possible results. Non-compliance with any pre-op instruction may lead to the postponement or cancellation of your procedure, which will incur costs at your own expense.

The Follow Up Process

Regular follow-up appointments at specific intervals post-surgery are crucial to monitor your progress and address any concerns. If you have any complaints or concerns, please advise our clinic staff. If your complaint or concern cannot be resolved by our team or you are not satisfied with the response, please contact our management team at 1300 138 797 or via email at [email protected].