What's the optimal spacing between toe fusion & tummy tuck & implants?

Question

Healthy 48 year old. Physically fit. Looking at tummy tuck and breast augmentation no lift above muscle implant. Need toe fusion. Goal decrease down time. What would be optimal spacing in between and whiich procedure first? Fusion - nonweight bearing 4 weeks

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Awesome504078, thank you for your question. My advice is to speak to the specialist and follow his or her recommendations regarding how long you have to wait to have another surgery. This is because surgical technique varies between surgeons as well as anesthesia is different depending on the patient and his or her medical history. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

The spacing between surgeries such as toe fusion, tummy tuck, and breast implants can vary significantly based on multiple factors, including the type of surgeries, your overall health, the extent of each procedure, and your surgeon's recommendations.

It's crucial to consider the recovery periods and physical limitations associated with each surgery when planning the optimal spacing between procedures. Here are some general considerations:

Toe Fusion: Recovery from toe fusion surgery can take several weeks to months, during which you might have limitations on weight-bearing activities or mobility, depending on the specific procedure. Discuss with your orthopedic surgeon to determine the estimated recovery time for toe fusion.

Tummy Tuck: Recovery from a tummy tuck typically involves several weeks of limited physical activity and may require avoiding strenuous activities for a more extended period. Your surgeon will provide guidance on when you can gradually resume normal activities.

Breast Implants: Recovery from breast augmentation surgery varies, but patients are often advised to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks and may have restrictions on lifting or stretching during the initial recovery phase.

To optimize recovery and minimize risks, spacing out surgeries is often recommended to allow adequate healing time between procedures. Attempting to undergo multiple surgeries too close together can increase the risk of complications, hinder proper healing, and prolong overall recovery time.

Consult with your surgeons—both the orthopedic surgeon for toe fusion and the plastic surgeon for the tummy tuck and breast implants—to discuss your goals, health status, and potential scheduling of procedures. They will provide personalized guidance and recommendations based on your individual circumstances to ensure the safest and most effective approach for your surgeries and recovery.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Awesome504078,
you should be fully healed prior to another surgery. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

You have to be fully mobile after a tummy tuck to minimize the risk of blood clots. BTW, if it is your big toe you may want to look into a Cartiva implant instead of a fusion. If you are a candidate for that it will allow you to preserve some range of motion. It's not my area of expertise but I have seen really impressive results.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

One of the most important things in postoperative recovery after TT is early ambulation. For that reason you have to be sure that you plan your procedures properly. Best is to discuss these issues with your surgeons. Good luck.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. I would make sure you are totally healed and full weight-bearing on your fused toe prior to entertaining the tummy tuck and breast augmentation. Speak to your orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist.

Jon S. Wilensky, MD · Answer

The optimal spacing between toe fusion, tummy tuck, and breast implants can depend on various factors, including the type of procedures, individual healing rates, and the recommendations of your healthcare provider. It’s crucial to consult with your surgeon to create a plan that considers your overall health ad specific surgical needs. They can provide guidance on the appropriate timing for these procedures to optimize your recovery and results.

Peter Andolina, DO · Answer

After reading your post I would recommend to start with the toe fusion and then after the 1 month of non-weight bearing you can consider doing your TT and breast augmentation at the same time.  After your cosmetic procedures you are going to need to ambulate and you may also need to be hunched over for a 1-2 weeks due to the TT.  You need to be able to put some weight on your foot at that time and you want to be somewhat steady on your feet.  You may also want to consider some sort of cane or walker to help with your mobility and stability.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Get your toe fixed first since after a tummy tuck, a much longer procedure, you will need to walk to avoid blood clots.  I would space the two at least 8-12 weeks apart so that you are ambulating well.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is important that you are able to walk around without restriction from your toe fusion after your tummy tuck.  Regular ambulation is important in preventing blood clots.  Speak with your orthopedic surgeon about your concerns and when would be a reasonable time to schedule the Mommy Makeover.

What's the optimal spacing between toe fusion & tummy tuck & implants?

Answers (11)

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