A thorough overview of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is presented. It is a relatively common surgical complication that ought to be of particular importance to cosmetic surgeons performing elective procedures, as PONV may lead to more serious complications as well as patient dissatisfaction unrelated to the surgical outcome of the procedure. Understanding the terminology, physiology, and risk factors involved make it possible for the clinician to select appropriate measures in management of this not insignificant surgical complication.
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