Some plastic surgery procedures can be combined for reduced recovery times, shorter hospital stays, and decreased anesthesia risks. Dr. David Whiteman will perform multiple plastic surgery procedures at once as long as the patient is healthy and the combined procedures pose no additional surgical risks. The most common combination of procedures is mommy makeover surgery, which typically includes liposuction, tummy tuck, and cosmetic breast surgery. However, an article recently released by US News & World Report discusses the safety of a new type of mommy makeover surgery: tummy tuck combined with hysterectomy.
Hysterectomy is performed by surgically removing a woman’s uterus, usually through an incision in the abdomen or a few tiny incisions in the abdomen using a device called a laparoscope. Also performed via an incision in the abdomen, tummy tuck surgery is designed to help flatten the tummy. During the procedure, excess abdominal tissue is excised, underlying muscles are tightened, and remaining skin is stretched downward. Although these procedures sound like a perfect match due to the location of incisions, it is important to evaluate the possible risks associated with the combined procedures to ensure patient safety.
The article detailed a study by researchers at the Florida International University in Hialeah. By evaluating 65 women who received both procedures simultaneously, the researchers concluded that the combination was relatively safe with only 32% of patients experiencing minor complications. Although complications can arise with any type of surgery, some surgeons believe this surgical combination should be reevaluated. Patients who pursue this type of procedure should be in good health overall, and the procedure should be performed by a board certified plastic surgeon who is working alongside a board certified gynecologic surgeon, both having experience performing these procedures together.
Like mommy makeover surgery, this type of combination can be very beneficial to patients who are good candidates. Possible benefits include reduced recover time, shortened hospital stay, and reduced anesthesia risks. Additionally, having both procedures at once could potentially save patients some money instead of paying hospital and anesthesia fees twice for two different procedures.
Before pursuing any type of plastic surgery, it’s important to do your research and find a board certified plastic surgeon who has experience performing the procedure you’re interested in. Visit Dr. Whiteman’s website to learn more about the cosmetic and reconstructive procedures he performs or schedule a consultation today for more information on a specific procedure. Be sure to also find Dr. Whiteman on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for plastic surgery news and health and wellness updates.