Like taxes, complications seem to be certain. However the individual chances of developing a complication after surgery seem to be much lower. For instance: The incidence of deep venous thrombosis after replacement surgery is only 1% amongst my patients and infection only 0.3%. Other complications like bleeding, stiffness, nerve injury, fracture etc. occur even less, but unfortunately not never.
Developing a complication can be a devastating experience affecting recovery, pain experience, psychological well being and finances. With this in mind I try to minimize the financial impact by doing dressings for free if possible and writing off excesses.
Measures you can take to prevent complications include being honest about other diseases and medication you use. Absolutely do not smoke and do not be around people who smoke. Control diabetes very well if applicable. Eat healthy and take a multivitamin daily. Be sure not to have any wounds at the time of surgery. Take the prescribed medication accurately and inform me early if you are uneasy about anything after surgey.