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

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.

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

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