Plastic surgery’s popularity for both cosmetic and reconstructive purposes is undeniable, with advancements drawing more people in. But as procedures become more accessible, understanding safe combinations becomes crucial.
Many factors impact decisions about combining surgeries, prioritizing patient safety, and optimal outcomes.
Open a conversation with your plastic surgeon about your goals and any worries you have. They’ll evaluate your medical history, physical condition, and overall health to determine if combining surgeries is workable.
During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of going under the knife for both procedures at once, including the possibility of staged treatments. While combining surgeries can be time and cost-effective, achieving a cohesive outcome must never compromise safety.
Anesthesia usage, surgical duration, and recovery will all be meticulously considered to help you make an informed decision about when combining procedures is safe.
Why Shouldn’t You Combine Some Plastic Surgery Procedures?
There are a few key reasons why combining certain plastic surgery procedures might not be advisable:
Safety
The longer you’re under anesthesia, the higher the risk of complications. Combining lengthy procedures can increase this risk. Additionally, some surgeries require specific positioning that might be difficult or even impossible to maintain for a longer combined procedure.
Recovery
Each surgery comes with its own recovery timeline. Combining procedures means a longer and potentially more complex recovery period. This can be both physically and mentally taxing.
Results
Surgeons often prioritize meticulous attention to detail for each procedure. Combining surgeries might limit the surgeon’s ability to focus on achieving the best possible outcome for each procedure.
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Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to combine procedures rests with you and your surgeon. It’s crucial to have a thorough consultation to discuss your goals, medical history, and the potential risks and benefits of combining specific surgeries.
Plastic Surgery Should Not Be Combined in the Following Situations
Combination Plastic Surgeries That Take Over 6 Hours
Prolonged surgeries are associated with a higher risk of complications. As a result, combining multiple plastic surgery procedures that would take over 6 hours to complete should be avoided.
This can prevent the likelihood of blood loss, deep vein thrombosis, and other complications. It is advisable to consult with your surgeon and carefully plan the procedures while prioritizing your safety and recovery.
Facial Plastic Surgery Before Body Procedures
While it might seem more convenient to combine facial plastic surgery with body procedures, there are multiple reasons why this is not safe.
It’s safer to separate the surgeries and give yourself ample time to recover. The recuperation from facial procedures may involve restrictions on physical activity, limiting your ability to heal properly after body surgery.
Additionally, undertaking both types of surgery at the same time increases the overall surgical stress on your body, which can lead to a prolonged and more challenging recovery period.
Arm Lift or Medial Thigh Lift for Hidradenitis Combined With Another Procedure
If you are considering an arm lift or a medial thigh lift to treat hidradenitis, combining them with other procedures is not recommended.
Hidradenitis is a skin condition characterized by inflammation, and the affected areas are typically prone to infections.
Combining such procedures can exacerbate these issues and jeopardize the healing process. Proper surgical planning requires a judicious approach and prioritizing your health over convenience.
When Is It Safe to Combine Plastic Surgery Procedures?
Breast Augmentation and a Tummy Tuck
It is generally safe to combine breast augmentation and a tummy tuck since they target different areas of the body.
Make sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who will assess your overall health and medical history. This will ensure your safety throughout the procedures. Be aware of the extended recovery time required, as these are both major surgeries.
Related: What are the Benefits of Combining Breast Augmentation and a Breast Lift?
Liposuction and a Tummy Tuck
Under the guidance of a skilled plastic surgeon, liposuction and a tummy tuck can successfully be combined. These procedures are often paired to achieve a smooth, contoured appearance.
But keep in mind that:
- The surgeon should be well-experienced in performing both procedures
- You might need to follow a longer recovery period as compared to having a single procedure
- The combined procedure can be more cost-effective in terms of anesthesia and facility fees
A Facelift and a Neck Lift
Combining a facelift and a neck lift is also considered safe, as these procedures share the same incision sites.
By having these procedures done together, you can:
- Minimize your recovery time
- Achieve a more harmonious, rejuvenated appearance
- Take advantage of the cost-saving benefits of having multiple procedures done at once.
Remember to always discuss your surgical plans with a trusted, board-certified plastic surgeon. They will carefully evaluate your circumstances and advise you on the best, safest course of action.
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Safety First, Always
In your journey considering combining plastic surgery procedures, it is essential to analyze the risks and benefits associated with each procedure.
Keep in mind that combining surgeries can result in:
- Reduced overall recovery time
- Lower total costs
- Psychological benefits
However, remember that it also comes with potential complications, such as:
- Longer surgery times
- Increased anesthesia risks
- Heightened chance of complications
Before making a decision, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess your case and determine the safest course of action for you.
It is crucial to listen to their expert advice and consider:
- Your overall health
- The complexity of the combined procedures
- The surgeon’s experience
In conclusion, combining plastic surgery procedures can be convenient and advantageous in some cases, but it’s not always the best choice for everyone. By taking a cautious and well-informed approach, you can ensure a positive outcome for both your appearance and your health.
Ready to explore how combining plastic surgery procedures can transform your appearance and boost your confidence? Come to the Sadeghi Center for Plastic Surgery today to schedule your personalized consultation and take the first step toward achieving your aesthetic goals. Contact us now!