Combined Surgeries

Q: I’m faced with the prospect of a hysterectomy and have been considering a tummy tuck.. Could these two procedures be done at the same time?

A: Combination procedures have become commonplace in plastic surgery. It is not uncommon to coordinate a cosmetic procedure with another procedure such as a urologic or gynecologic surgery. Several studies have demonstrated that the overall complication rates are no different whether combined or done separately. In many cases, it can consolidate two procedures into one and reduce expense and limit recovery time. Combining a tummy tuck with a hysterectomy is a logical combination ultimately making the gynecologic procedure less technically demanding, reducing operating time and ultimately providing an aesthetically pleasing end result. Many of my patients completely overlook the fact that they have had a hysterectomy because they are so excited about their tummy tucks. Breast augmentations, facelifts, eyelid surgery, breast reductions, and liposuction are but a few of the procedures that can be combined with other surgery. With increasing demands to limit downtime, combining cosmetic surgery with other planned procedures is a reasonable strategy but should be individualized to the patient and to the extent and type of surgery desired. As always, the goals are always to ensure patient safety while meeting their aesthetic expectations and desires. For more information, log onto my website at www.drhainer.com or call for a complimentary consultation.