For most patients, plastic surgery is alluring because it’s an opportunity to make improvements to their appearance which they would not otherwise be able to change. And because many of us have several aesthetic features we wish were different, the idea of combining multiple cosmetic procedures into one surgery becomes equally alluring. For instance, the mommy makeover is a common combination, which usually includes a breast surgery, a tummy tuck, and liposuction in order to help a woman’s figure look more like it did before pregnancy and motherhood. But given the knowledge that all surgeries have inherent risks, is it really safe to go through several procedures in one day? The short answer is that yes, it can be, but certain precautions need to be taken.
Safety Measures Before Plastic Surgery
One of the most important safety aspects of surgery involves the length of time you’ll be under anesthesia. Understandably, it takes longer to perform three surgeries than it does to perform one, so a combined plastic surgery will require you to be under anesthesia for a longer period of time. To evaluate whether you’re a good candidate for this longer type of operation, you’ll be asked to undergo some medical testing before your surgery. Your specific exam will be based on a number of factors, like the specific procedures you’re planning to have, your age, and your medical history or other risk factors. For this reason, it’s extremely important to be honest during your consultation about your medical history, any medications and vitamins you’re taking, and any concerns you may have.
Another safety measure you should take before undergoing multiple plastic surgeries is to be particularly careful about the surgeon you choose. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon, especially one who is experienced in both combined surgery and in the specific procedures you’re considering.
The Pros of Combined Plastic Surgeries
The good news is that if your health is indeed strong enough to make you a candidate for having multiple procedures in one surgery, there are a host of benefits compared to having several separate operations. One of the most enticing aspects of this type of operation is the fact that it offers an overall shorter journey toward achieving an appearance you can feel more confident in, because you’ll only need one recovery period instead of several, as the accompanying graphic illustrates. Another benefit of choosing to undergo the multiple plastic surgeries you’re considering in one operation is the lowered cost. Your total cost for plastic surgery will include the anesthesia fee, the facility fee, the surgeon’s fee, etc., so by only using the facility and the anesthesia once instead of several separate times, your final costs can be significantly lower.
Ultimately, one of the most important aspects of plastic surgery is its customizability. Your surgery should be designed around your aesthetic goals, your health and medical needs, and a plan which makes you feel comfortable. Whether you’re considering one plastic surgery or several, you can begin your process by scheduling a consultation with me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. Or, for more helpful information and to stay up-to-date with the latest in plastic surgery, join me on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
