I am undergoing treatment for cancer & want to know how long I should wait before having cosmetic work done

Question

Last yr I was diagnosed with Peritoneal Mesiothelioma. I had extensive abdominal surgery including hysterectomy and peritonectomy on 29/09/16, including bilateral chest drains. I am currently undergoing 6 rounds of chemotherapy (Cistplatin, Pemetrexid) which is completing on 10/03/17. I want cosmetic work & wondered how long I should wait until after the chemo before I should have these procedures please Short scar facelift Tummy Tuck Surgical Dermaroller Breast lift Thank you in advance

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

The time between having electoral #cosmetic surgery after a major surgery depends on the surgery. Its best to consult with the surgeon or specialist you recently had the major surgery with to gain perspective as to when cosmetic surgery can be scheduled. During your #consultation, your skin texture and elasticity, as well as your underlying skin structure and your facial bone structure will be evaluated. Based on this evaluation, your board certified plastic surgeons will create a custom surgical plan, detailing specific techniques and recommendations to meet your goals. In doing so, he or she should be sure to have a full understanding of what results you expect. It is possible to #combine #surgeries. In fact, I commonly recommend other procedures to go accompany a facelift, such as blepharoplasty or a midface (cheek) lift, to name a few. The combination of multiple of facial procedures may create an optimal result. The best procedure approach will be discussed in greater detail during your one-on-one #consultation. I invite you to visit PacificCenterPlasticSurgery.com to view a complete list of surgeries commonly performed.

If you are not a #candidate, your surgeon can make other suggestions to address your concerns and objectives. It is extremely important to seek a board certified plastic surgeon highly trained with your desired procedures. I also encourage you to look at before and after photos of the surgeons actual patients. Also, reading patient reviews of those who have had combined surgeries will be beneficial. Gathering all of this information will help you make a well-informed decision.

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the great question. In my experience, patients typically do not undergo elective surgery during active treatment for cancer (including chemo). Once this is completed, and any residual side effects from the medications are resolved, you may be able to proceed. I would have a frank conversation with your oncology team about your wishes and make a plan to address your pre- and post-procedure care directly with them. Wishing you the best, Dr. Ransom

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear ClairecolleyThank you for your question and all the best in your recovery. The timing of any procedure would really be up to your oncologic team.  The medications will have an effect on your immune system and you may be at risk of forming blood clots.With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

Hagen Schumacher, PhD, FRCS(Plast), FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello,

There is no strict rule, but since cosmetic surgery is less important than medical health, I would wait 6-12 months after your chemotherapy has finished before embarking on cosmetic procedures.

Kouros Azar, MD · Answer

Obviously, first check with your oncologist, but I would probably advise you to wait at least 6 months to a year before considering elective surgery. The most important thing right now is for your body to return to full health. Best of luck.

I am undergoing treatment for cancer & want to know how long I should wait before having cosmetic work done

Answers (9)

Answer: Cosmetic Surgery Delay

Answer: Cosmetic Surgery Delay

Answer: Scheduling cosmetic surgery after chemotherapy

Answer: Scheduling cosmetic surgery after chemotherapy

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Everything you need to know about Facelift

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I am undergoing treatment for cancer & want to know how long I should wait before having cosmetic work done

Answers (9)

Answer: Cosmetic Surgery Delay

Answer: Cosmetic Surgery Delay

Answer: Scheduling cosmetic surgery after chemotherapy

Answer: Scheduling cosmetic surgery after chemotherapy

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.