Contraindications for the procedure
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Contraindications to a procedure are all health conditions, physiological states, or clinical circumstances that may increase the risk of complications, reduce the efficacy of the procedure, or lead to a deterioration of the patient's condition. Their identification is a fundamental element of medical qualification, regardless of whether we are discussing aesthetic medicine, dermatological, surgical, physiotherapeutic, or cosmetological procedures. Contraindications are not discretionary – they are based on current medical knowledge, the physiology of the body, and clinical data. They can be temporary or permanent, general or localized, and their presence always requires modification of the approach: from postponing the procedure, changing the technique, to a complete abandonment of the procedure. A thorough analysis of contraindications protects the patient from complications and constitutes the foundation of safe medicine.
Contraindications to the procedure – types
The classification of contraindications to procedures is based on the risk level, duration, and mechanism of their action. Several complementary classifications are used in clinical practice.
These are conditions in which performing the procedure is unequivocally prohibited, as the risk of complications outweighs any potential benefits.
The most common include:
- Pregnancy (especially the first trimester) – teratogenic, hormonal, and vascular risks
- Active cancer (except for clearly defined supportive procedures)
- Severe autoimmune diseases in the active phase
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Blood clotting disorders and the use of anticoagulant drugs without the possibility of modification
- Active systemic infections (bacterial, viral, fungal)
- Severe cardiovascular diseases (unstable coronary disease, recent heart attack)
In these cases, the procedure should not be performed, regardless of the technology or experience of the personnel.
They do not definitively exclude the procedure but require individual assessment, patient preparation, or temporary postponement of the procedure.
Examples:
- Local skin infections (e.g., herpes, purulent lesions)
- Inflammatory conditions in the treatment area
- Taking certain medications (retinoids, steroids, immunosuppressants)
- Mild hormonal disorders
- Convalescence period after illness or surgery
The decision to perform the procedure depends on the risk-benefit balance and the experience of the medical team.
These are conditions that resolve after a certain time, allowing safe procedure performance in the future.
They most commonly include:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding period
- Acute infections
- Recent tanning
- Interrupted skin continuity
- Period after intensive dermatological or surgical procedures
In practice, this means the necessity to postpone the appointment rather than forgoing treatment.
They concern a specific area of the body rather than the entire organism.
They include:
- Skin cancerous changes
- Active dermatoses
- Fresh or pathological scars
- Skin and subcutaneous tissue infections
In such cases, it may be possible to perform the procedure in another area.
Contraindications to the procedure - causes
Contraindications are not an arbitrary set of prohibitions – they result from specific biological and clinical mechanisms that can lead to complications.
Metabolic diseases, protein deficiencies, circulatory disorders, or immunosuppression impair tissue regeneration, increasing the risk of:
- infections,
- necrosis,
- hypertrophic scars,
- chronic inflammation.
Hemostasis disorders and drugs affecting coagulation can lead to:
- hemorrhages,
- hematomas,
- thromboembolic complications.
Therefore, a thorough pharmacological history is absolutely crucial.
Procedures involving the skin or deep tissues can exacerbate autoimmune diseases, leading to:
- disease relapses,
- spread of lesions,
- unpredictable immune reactions.
Pregnancy, endocrine disorders, or hormonal treatment alter tissue response to stimuli, affecting:
- healing,
- pigmentation,
- risk of vascular complications.
Although not all procedures are contraindicated, tissue stimulation, increased blood flow, and activation of regenerative processes may be undesirable in oncology patients without the consent of the attending physician.
Some contraindications are psychological in nature, such as:
- unrealistic expectations,
- body image disorders,
- lack of patient cooperation.
In such situations, performing the procedure can lead to dissatisfaction, conflicts, and legal consequences, despite a correct medical course.
Contraindications to procedures are a protective tool, not a limitation on the development of therapy. Their correct interpretation requires interdisciplinary knowledge, clinical experience, and an individualized approach to the patient. Ignoring contraindications is not therapeutic bravery—it is a medical error.
