After massive weight loss, I am looking to have both breast reduction and tummy tuck. I can't decide whether or not to do them together though. Putting finances aside, what are the benefits of doing them together or done separately? Would I heal better if I did one at a time?
September 23, 2020
Answer: Combining breast reduction with tummy tuck The question of combining versus staging cosmetic procedures is asked frequently. I will list some of the advantages and draw backs. Combining procedures can potentially reduce the total down time and total cost. I would recommend it depending on the patient's health, invasiveness of the procedures, and if we can keep the operative time under about 6 hours. It does not make the recovery easier or the healing "better". The anesthesia and surgical risks (infection, blood clots, pulmonary complications, etc.) increase significantly with prolonged operative times. Staging the procedures will result in two "down times", unless they are done within 1-2 weeks apart. The tummy tuck can be done first, then while you are still recovering, the breast reduction is done 1-2 weeks later. This sequence will keep the total down time about the same, while making the recovery a lot easier. Most importantly, this will reduce the surgical risks to an acceptable level. Safety being the most important factor, I generally do NOT recommend combining extensive procedures if the operative time will exceed 6-7 hours. Discuss your specific situation with one or more Board Certified plastic surgeons in an in-person consultation, so you can decide on the best plan. Best wishes!
Helpful 6 people found this helpful
September 23, 2020
Answer: Combining breast reduction with tummy tuck The question of combining versus staging cosmetic procedures is asked frequently. I will list some of the advantages and draw backs. Combining procedures can potentially reduce the total down time and total cost. I would recommend it depending on the patient's health, invasiveness of the procedures, and if we can keep the operative time under about 6 hours. It does not make the recovery easier or the healing "better". The anesthesia and surgical risks (infection, blood clots, pulmonary complications, etc.) increase significantly with prolonged operative times. Staging the procedures will result in two "down times", unless they are done within 1-2 weeks apart. The tummy tuck can be done first, then while you are still recovering, the breast reduction is done 1-2 weeks later. This sequence will keep the total down time about the same, while making the recovery a lot easier. Most importantly, this will reduce the surgical risks to an acceptable level. Safety being the most important factor, I generally do NOT recommend combining extensive procedures if the operative time will exceed 6-7 hours. Discuss your specific situation with one or more Board Certified plastic surgeons in an in-person consultation, so you can decide on the best plan. Best wishes!
Helpful 6 people found this helpful
November 22, 2015
Answer: Tummy tuck and breast reduction Thank you for your question. A tummy tuck and breast reduction are great procedures to combine as they address some of big changes that happen after pregnancy or weight loss. It is often referred to as a mommy makeover. It is a bigger procedure and may often require a night in the hospital. I would consult with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area to discuss your options in more detail and would recommend combining the procedure as you will only have one recovery.
Helpful
November 22, 2015
Answer: Tummy tuck and breast reduction Thank you for your question. A tummy tuck and breast reduction are great procedures to combine as they address some of big changes that happen after pregnancy or weight loss. It is often referred to as a mommy makeover. It is a bigger procedure and may often require a night in the hospital. I would consult with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area to discuss your options in more detail and would recommend combining the procedure as you will only have one recovery.
Helpful