Can I Get Breast Implants and an Arm Lift During the Same Surgery and How Long is the Recovery Time for Both Procedures at Once?

The combination of brachioplasty and breast augmentation can be performed in a single setting. When these operations are performed together, safety has to be the first priority. For this reason, we believe it's important to minimize the length of these operative procedures. An experienced surgeon, first assistant and surgical team that focus on efficiency can minimize the length of the procedure and reduce the potential for complications.The advantages of this approach are obvious and include improved synergy and harmony which improves the overall aesthetic result. Patients experience one recovery rather than multiple recoveries and they potentially save money when the procedures are done in combination.When these procedures are performed together, patients can anticipate limited physical activity for ten to fourteen days following surgery. I, typically, tell my patients bathroom and kitchen privileges initially with slow resumption of normal activity over the next two weeks. Patients can usually return to work in two weeks if no strenuous activity or heavy lifting is involved. After six weeks, they can resume all their normal activities including heavy lifting. Combination surgery isn't for everyone. Patients may have co-existing health problems which prevent this approach. If you're considering this approach, it's important that you discuss these issues with your plastic surgeon. Your surgeon should be able to formulate an appropriate surgical plan.

Thank you for your question.  It is reasonable to combine and arm lift and breast augmentation in weight loss body contouring.  You should also discuss the armpit and lateral chest wall with your surgeon if you have skin laxity in this area.  An axilloplasty can help with skin excess in this region in combination with the arm lift and breast aug.  Best wishes!

Combining both procedures at the same time can be accomplished as long as you are in good health. Typically arm lift takes about 2 to 3 hours while breast augmentation takes about one hour to complete. If breast lift is required then the total surgical time will increase. 

 

Stewart Wang, MD FACS