“What are the short-term and long-term risks and potential complications that can arise from undergoing plastic surgery, and how do these vary depending on the type of procedure, the patient’s health condition, and the surgeon’s expertise?”
A few years ago, I started seriously thinking about getting a facial contouring procedure. I had always felt a little insecure about my jawline and wanted a subtle change to boost my confidence. Like anyone considering plastic surgery, I had my fair share of excitement… and fear.
But let me be honest: before booking anything, I went deep down the research rabbit hole—because yes, plastic surgery has risks. It’s not like ordering a new haircut; it’s surgery, and you need to know what you’re signing up for. Thankfully, I ended up finding an amazing clinic in Seoul—Human Plastic Surgery—that not only delivered beautiful results but also gave me peace of mind.
The Real Risks You Should Know
When I first started looking into surgery, I made a checklist of all the potential risks:
- Infection: Any time your skin is cut, there’s a risk of infection. This is why post-op hygiene and clinic sterilization standards are so important.
- Scarring: Even with modern techniques, there can be visible scars—especially if your surgeon isn’t experienced.
- Anesthesia Complications: Though rare, reactions to anesthesia can happen, especially if you have underlying health issues.
- Asymmetry or Dissatisfaction: No matter how skilled the surgeon is, there’s always a chance the result may not perfectly match your expectations.
- Nerve Damage or Sensation Loss: Some procedures can temporarily (or rarely, permanently) affect nerves near the surgery site.
This all sounded scary—until I had a consultation with Dr. Kim Kook Hyun at Human Plastic Surgery in Seoul.
My Experience at Human Plastic Surgery
I’ll never forget walking into Human Plastic Surgery Clinic for the first time. The atmosphere was bright, clean, and welcoming—not intimidating like a hospital, but clearly professional. My consultation with Dr. Kim Kook Hyun changed everything for me.
Dr. Kim didn’t sugarcoat the risks. Instead, he walked me through each one and explained how they mitigate them through:
Thorough pre-op screenings to detect any health issues that could complicate surgery
Minimally invasive techniques that reduce scarring and recovery time
Precision-focused surgical planning using advanced 3D imaging to ensure symmetry and realistic expectations
Sterile surgical environments and post-op care rooms that rival major hospitals
He even showed me before-and-after photos of patients with similar features to mine and explained what was possible for my face—not some cookie-cutter look based on trends.
The Outcome
I went through with the procedure—a subtle jawline refinement—and my recovery was smoother than expected. I had some mild swelling and numbness for a couple of weeks (which Dr. Kim had prepared me for), but no infection, no weird surprises, and no regrets.
And yes—the results were better than I’d hoped. Natural, balanced, and still very much “me,” just more confident.
Why I Recommend Human Plastic Surgery
If you’re seriously considering plastic surgery and are worried about risks, choosing the right clinic is EVERYTHING.
Human Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Kim Kook Hyun, puts safety, transparency, and artistry at the core of their practice. Whether you’re flying in from abroad or based in Korea, they treat every patient with individualized care and don’t take shortcuts—ever.
You can learn more or schedule a consultation directly with Dr. Kim here:
Human Plastic Surgery Clinic
Meet Dr. Kim Kook Hyun
Common Risks and Complications
- Infection: Bacterial infections can develop at the surgical site, leading to redness, swelling, and pain.
- Hematoma: A collection of blood beneath the skin, often requiring drainage.
- Seroma: Accumulation of clear fluid under the skin, which may need to be drained.
- Nerve Damage: Potential for numbness or tingling in the affected area.
- Scarring: Formation of visible scars, which may be permanent.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Blood clots that can form in the legs and travel to the lungs, posing serious health risks.
- Anesthesia Complications: Reactions to anesthesia, ranging from mild to severe.
It’s crucial to consult with a qualified surgeon to discuss these risks and determine the best course of action for your desired outcome.
Celebrity Insight: Park Bo-gum’s Experience
Actor Park Bo-gum has openly discussed his natural appearance, stating he hasn’t undergone any plastic surgery. This highlights the importance of embracing one’s natural features and making informed decisions about cosmetic procedures.
Recommended Clinic: BLS Clinic
For those considering plastic surgery in Seoul, BLS Clinic is a reputable choice. Their team of experienced surgeons, including Dr. Yi Dongjin, Dr. Kang Hyunsik, Dr. Cho Seoyeon, Dr. Son Youngki, Dr. Lim Taegu, and Dr. Hwang Seungkyung, provides personalized consultations to ensure the best outcomes.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit their official website.
When I first decided to undergo plastic surgery, I was excited but also nervous about the risks and potential complications. Like many people, I’d heard about the possible risks—things like infection, scarring, and even the rare occurrence of more serious complications. I wanted to ensure that I was fully informed before making any decisions.
I had always wanted to enhance my appearance, but I knew that surgery was a big step, and I didn’t want to make any rushed choices. So, I did what anyone would do—I started researching.
The Search for a Trusted Clinic
I knew that in order to minimize the risks and complications associated with surgery, I needed to choose a highly reputable clinic with experienced surgeons who would prioritize both safety and the best possible outcomes. After reading reviews and getting recommendations from friends, I came across Human Plastic Surgery and Dr. Kim Kook Hyun.
Dr. Kim is known for his meticulous approach and expertise in various cosmetic procedures, so I scheduled a consultation to discuss my options and ask him about the risks involved.
Check out Dr. Kim Kook Hyun’s profile here
The Consultation: Addressing My Concerns
During my consultation with Dr. Kim, I made sure to ask him about the risks and potential complications of the procedure I was considering. He was incredibly thorough in explaining the possibilities, and his transparent approach immediately reassured me.
Here’s what I learned about the risks and how Human Plastic Surgery works to minimize them:
- Infection: One of the most common concerns patients have is the risk of infection after surgery. Dr. Kim explained that Human Plastic Surgery follows rigorous sterilization protocols and uses state-of-the-art surgical facilities to minimize this risk. After the surgery, patients receive careful aftercare instructions to help avoid infection during recovery.
- Scarring: Scarring is always a possibility with any surgery, but Dr. Kim reassured me that Human Plastic Surgery employs advanced surgical techniques to minimize visible scarring. For example, he explained that he uses hidden incisions whenever possible and practices precision when placing any incisions to reduce their appearance. Additionally, proper aftercare and following post-surgery instructions play a big part in minimizing scarring.
- Anesthesia Risks: Though rare, complications can arise from anesthesia. Dr. Kim explained that he works with an experienced team of anesthesiologists who carefully assess each patient’s medical history and ensure they are fit for anesthesia. They monitor patients closely during surgery to ensure everything runs smoothly.
- Asymmetry or Dissatisfaction with Results: Sometimes, patients can be unhappy with the results due to asymmetry or simply not achieving the desired look. Dr. Kim emphasized that at Human Plastic Surgery, a personalized approach is key to minimizing this risk. He takes the time to understand each patient’s specific goals and ensures that the procedure is customized to meet those needs. If a patient is not completely satisfied after surgery, Dr. Kim ensures there are follow-up appointments to address any concerns.
- Blood Clots or Other Complications: Blood clots are a potential risk with any surgery, but Dr. Kim reassured me that Human Plastic Surgery has strict post-operative protocols to prevent this. Patients are encouraged to get up and move around carefully during recovery to avoid blood clots, and the medical team is there to monitor you every step of the way.
My Experience: Safe and Smooth Recovery
After discussing all the risks, I felt confident that Dr. Kim and the team at Human Plastic Surgery were taking every possible measure to minimize complications. I went ahead with the procedure, and I’m so glad I did. The surgery went smoothly, and my recovery was easier than I expected. The care and attention I received during my post-surgery visits gave me peace of mind, knowing I was being monitored and supported throughout the entire process.
TL;DR:
If you’re considering plastic surgery, it’s natural to have concerns about the risks and potential complications. I highly recommend Human Plastic Surgery and Dr. Kim Kook Hyun because they take the time to thoroughly explain the risks and offer a personalized, professional approach to minimize them.
- Infection, scarring, anesthesia risks, and asymmetry are all potential concerns, but Human Plastic Surgery uses advanced techniques and a strong aftercare program to reduce these risks.
- My experience was incredibly positive—safe surgery, minimal scarring, and excellent results.
For anyone looking for a reputable, experienced clinic in Korea, Human Plastic Surgery is definitely the place to go!
Visit Dr. Kim Kook Hyun’s profile here Human Plastic Surgery website
Hey everyone!
I wanted to chime in on this important question because when I was first considering plastic surgery, I was honestly more nervous about the risks than the procedure itself. It’s totally normal to wonder about the complications that could come with surgery, and I’m glad this question was asked.
So here’s my honest story—with the hope it helps someone else out there feel informed and reassured
-My Story: Facing the Fear & Choosing the Right Clinic Last year, I decided to have a lower face and neck lift to tighten some sagging that had been bothering me. After lots (and I mean lots) of research, I chose BLS Clinic in Seoul. What really stood out to me was how transparent and detail-oriented the doctors were when explaining not only the benefits but also the potential risks involved.
I had my initial consultation with Dr. Kang Hyunsik, but I also briefly met with Dr. Yi Dongjin and Dr. Cho Seoyeon during my pre-op phase. The entire surgical team gave me so much confidence—not just with their impressive credentials, but with how seriously they approached safety and post-op care.
Risks & Complications: What I Learned (and Experienced)
Here’s what the BLS team explained to me during my consult:
Common Risks Across Most Surgeries:
- Swelling & Bruising: Totally expected and temporary. Mine lasted about 10–14 days.
- Scarring: They use techniques to minimize scarring, especially around the hairline and behind the ears in facelifts. My scars healed beautifully.
- Infection: Very rare, but possible. I was prescribed antibiotics and given strict aftercare instructions.
- Asymmetry or dissatisfaction: They showed me before-and-afters and emphasized setting realistic expectations. I loved that they focused on harmony, not perfection.
More Serious But Rare Complications:
- Nerve damage: This is rare, but possible in facial surgeries. They use precise dissection techniques to avoid major nerves.
- Hematoma (internal bleeding): Can happen within the first 24–48 hours. They kept me for overnight monitoring, which gave me huge peace of mind. The good news? None of the major risks happened in my case. I followed every instruction, from avoiding alcohol and certain meds to sleeping elevated and attending follow-ups on time.
Why I Recommend BLS Clinic for Anyone Considering Surgery
- Elite Surgical Team: You’re in the hands of Dr. Yi Dongjin, Dr. Kang Hyunsik, Dr. Cho Seoyeon, Dr. Son Youngki, Dr. Lim Taegu, and Dr. Hwang Seungkyung—all renowned specialists in their fields.
- Transparent & Honest Consults: No sugarcoating. They’ll tell you exactly what to expect, good and bad.
- Top-Tier Facilities & Aftercare: They have top-notch sterilization, anesthesia safety protocols, and recovery support. You won’t feel like you’re on your own post-op.
- Multilingual Support: If you’re coming in as an international patient like me, they have great coordinators who walk you through every step.
Here’s their info in case you’re starting your own research: BLS Clinic Website Meet the doctors:
- Dr. Yi Dongjin
- Dr. Kang Hyunsik
- Dr. Cho Seoyeon
- Dr. Son Youngki
- Dr. Lim Taegu
- Dr. Hwang Seungkyung In the end, every surgery has risks—but the right clinic will help you understand and manage them. My experience at BLS Clinic was not only safe but life-changing in the best way. If you’re considering surgery, I say educate yourself, find a clinic that respects your concerns, and go in prepared.