Safety and Trust: Which Tests and Steps Ensure Surgical Success (and the Role of 3D Modeling)

When deciding to undergo an aesthetic or reconstructive procedure, patients expect two essential outcomes: safety and results that align with their expectations. As a plastic surgeon with many years of experience, I can confidently say that both safety and the quality of the final outcome are established through proper preoperative preparation and detailed planning, including the use of 3D modeling.

What “Surgical Success” Means from a Surgeon’s Perspective

From my perspective as a plastic surgeon, success is always defined by three key components. First and foremost is patient safety: the absence of serious complications and a stable course of both the surgery itself and the early postoperative period. Second is predictability – when the patient’s body responds exactly as expected based on laboratory tests, diagnostic evaluations, and medical history, without unpleasant surprises. Third is satisfaction with the result, meaning that the actual outcome closely matches what was thoroughly discussed during the consultation and previously visualized.

Which Tests and Examinations Are Typically Required Before Surgery

The scope of preoperative testing varies depending on the clinic, country, patient age, and type of planned surgical intervention. Prior to elective plastic surgery, we typically assess a complete blood count to evaluate hemoglobin levels and identify potential signs of inflammation; coagulation parameters to determine the risk of bleeding or thrombosis; biochemical markers of liver and kidney function; and blood glucose levels. When indicated, glycated hemoglobin is evaluated in patients with suspected carbohydrate metabolism disorders.

An electrocardiogram is particularly important in patients over 40 years of age or in those with cardiovascular symptoms or previously diagnosed heart conditions. Imaging studies such as X-ray, CT, or MRI are added as indicated – for example, in secondary rhinoplasty or complex reconstructive procedures. When necessary, we involve related specialists, including cardiologists, endocrinologists, and anesthesiologists, to obtain a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s overall health.

Laboratory tests alone do not make a procedure safe. Their true value lies in providing the time and clinical justification needed to identify and correct potential risk factors in advance.

Components of a Safe Procedure: More Than Just “Golden Hands”

From the surgeon’s and medical team’s standpoint, patient safety is always the result of multiple well-considered decisions. Above all, this involves selecting an appropriate surgical scope: if the body is not prepared to tolerate “everything at once,” it is far wiser to stage aesthetic corrections over time. Equally important is a carefully executed surgical technique – gentle tissue handling, minimizing operative time, controlling blood loss, and precise wound closure. Close collaboration with the anesthesiologist is essential, including an individualized anesthesia plan and meticulous intraoperative monitoring.

The postoperative phase is no less critical and includes early yet gentle mobilization, effective pain management, and clear written instructions regarding wound care, daily routine, and permissible physical activity.

3D Modeling in the Planning Phase of Plastic Surgery

During the planning stage of plastic surgery, I frequently use 3D modeling. This technology allows the discussion to move away from abstract descriptions toward a clear representation of shapes, lines, and proportions that patients can see and fully understand.

Clinical studies in rhinoplasty and breast surgery demonstrate that 3D visualization helps patients better comprehend the potential outcome and make more informed decisions about surgery. It is essential to understand that we are not creating an idealized “after photo,” but rather a realistic scenario within the limits of each patient’s unique anatomy and facial or body proportions. For me as a surgeon, 3D modeling is also a valuable tool for identifying the gap between what a patient imagines and what can be safely and realistically achieved.

Viewing the 3D model together establishes a shared visual reference and significantly reduces the risk of unrealistic expectations – and, consequently, postoperative disappointment - even when the surgery itself is performed to the highest technical standard.