There is an increasing trend of people having weight loss surgery, followed by cosmetic breast surgery. While these two procedures can each deliver amazing results individually, the decision to combine them into one operation should be carefully considered, taking into consideration potential risks and benefits.
Large weight loss can result in physical changes to the body, including breast size and appearance. Many people choose to have breast surgery as a result. Breast reduction or breast augmentation, are often popular choices to help achieve the desired look. However, combining weight loss surgery and breast surgery can be challenging and carries some risks, particularly if patients are not fully informed.
Combining Breast Surgery with Weight Loss Surgery
When patients have both breast surgery and weight loss surgery, the order in which these surgeries are performed can be influenced by a number of factors. Doctors will generally consider anticipated weight loss, as well as the timing of the two surgeries. One of the key considerations will be whether the breast lift or reduction should be performed before, during, or after bariatric surgery.
In some cases, patients may undergo breast surgery after weight loss surgery. This is recommended as it will allow patients to have a better idea of what the final results will look like. For those that have gastric bypass or another form of weight loss surgery, it may be recommended to wait until 12 to 18 months after surgery before considering breast surgery. This waiting period allows time for the body to adjust to the weight loss and for the risk level to decrease.
Risks of Combining Breast Surgery with Weight Loss Surgery
All surgeries carry risks, but combining breast surgery with weight loss surgery can typically increase the risk level. There have been some studies that have suggested increased complication rates when combining the two operations. While some of these complications are minor, some can be more serious.
Surgical wound healing can be a particular issue with the combination of weight loss and breast surgeries. Suture and incision healing can be slower if the patient is malnourished from the weight loss surgery. The risk of a deep or superficial infection can be slightly greater. Additionally, an unstable wound, poor keratinization, or troublesome scars can be concerns as well.
Benefits of Combining Breast Surgery with Weight Loss Surgery
While there are risks associated with combining breast surgery and weight loss surgery, there can likely be benefits as well. Patients may be able to get both surgeries done in a single hospital stay, saving them time and money. In some instances, it may be easier to coordinate multiple surgeries at once than to have them done at different times.
In addition, patients may experience fewer body image struggles with combined breast surgery and weight loss surgery. Since breast changes related to weight loss can be overwhelming, having breast surgery done right away may help to ease the adjustment to the new body shape.
Conclusion
It’s important for patients to have a full understanding of the potential risks and benefits of combining breast surgery with weight loss surgery. Additionally, it is important that patients work closely with their surgeons to make the surgery dates, the surgery order, and the key decisions in the breast surgery or breast implant process. By taking the time to fully understand everything, patients can make an informed choice that is best for them.