A Comprehensive Guide to Combined Arm Lift and Tummy Tuck Surgery with Dr. Ahmet Kaplan
Hello, dear readers, I’m Dr. Ahmet Kaplan, a Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist. As we journey through life, our bodies undergo various changes. Rapid weight loss or the natural effects of aging can lead to sagging and loose skin in different areas. Recently, one of the most common questions my patients ask at the clinic is whether it’s possible to combine different aesthetic procedures. In this article, I want to discuss the possibility of performing arm lift (brachioplasty) and tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) surgeries together, a topic I will cover in a comprehensive, yet conversational style.
Combined Body Contouring Operations: Is It Possible to Achieve Maximum Results in a Single Session?
My answer to this question is a definite yes. In plastic surgery, we frequently perform multiple aesthetic procedures at the same time, provided the patient’s general health allows it. We call this a combined operation. From a medical perspective, with the right patient selection, an experienced surgeon, and a safe, fully-equipped hospital environment, arm lift and tummy tuck surgeries can be safely performed together under the same anesthesia in a single surgical session.
The philosophy behind this approach is quite simple: to help the patient achieve their desired outcome more quickly, comfortably, and effectively, with a single anesthetic session, a single surgical procedure, and a single recovery period. This minimizes the physical and psychological burden of surgery while saving a significant amount of time.
Why Choose a Combined Operation? What Are the Advantages?
Performing these two major surgeries at once offers numerous significant advantages for our patients. Let’s take a look at these benefits together:
1. Single Anesthesia, Single Hospital Stay: Every surgical procedure puts a certain amount of stress on the body. Having two separate surgeries means undergoing anesthesia twice, having two hospital stays, and going through the preparation process twice. This places an unnecessary burden on the body. With a combined operation, all these processes are completed in one go, minimizing stress for both the patient and their body.
2. Shorter Overall Recovery Time: In separate surgeries, each has its own distinct recovery period, which must be completed one after the other. In a combined operation, the recovery periods overlap, resulting in a much shorter overall time to recuperate. This allows our patients to return to their normal lives and social activities more quickly.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: The cost of surgery is not just the surgeon’s fee. It includes many other items such as the anesthesiologist’s fee, hospital costs, operating room use, medications, and hospital stay. Performing two surgeries together means these expenses are covered in a single go. This often makes the total cost more economical compared to having two separate surgeries.
4. A More Cohesive Aesthetic Outcome: Plastic surgery is the art of balancing the body’s overall aesthetic. When the same surgeon performs both arm and tummy procedures in the same session, it ensures that the body contours appear more harmonious and unified. This allows for the creation of a “sculpted silhouette” that looks naturally proportionate.
Disadvantages and Important Considerations of Combined Operations
As with any surgical procedure, combined operations have their own set of challenges and points to consider. As a transparent and honest surgeon, I want my potential patients to be fully informed about these aspects as well:
1. Longer Operation Time: A stand-alone tummy tuck typically takes 2 to 4 hours, while an arm lift can take 1 to 2 hours. When combined, the total surgery time can extend to 4 to 6 hours or even longer. Extended surgery times require the patient to be in excellent general health and to be closely monitored by the anesthesiologist.
2. Restricted Mobility During Recovery: Undergoing surgery on two significant areas at once can severely restrict mobility during the first few days. The use of your arms, in particular, may be challenging, which is why the patient will absolutely need assistance at home. Being mentally prepared for this period and not hesitating to ask for help is crucial.
3. Increased Risk Profile: Although these risks are very low, having surgery on two areas instead of one can theoretically slightly increase the risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, or deep vein thrombosis (blood clot formation). For this reason, the patient’s general health status is thoroughly evaluated before the operation, and all precautions are taken meticulously.
Who Is a Good Candidate, and Who Is Not?
While the benefits of combined surgery are attractive, it may not be suitable for every patient. My most important responsibility as a surgeon is to prioritize the patient’s health above all else. Therefore, clearly identifying ideal candidates and those who are not suitable is critically important.
Ideal Candidates for a Combined Operation:
- Individuals in excellent general health, with no systemic illnesses like chronic heart, lung, or uncontrolled diabetes.
- Non-smokers or those who have completely quit smoking at least 3-4 weeks before the surgery. Smoking negatively affects tissue healing, making this a vital consideration.
- Individuals who are close to their ideal weight and have a stable lifestyle that will help them maintain this weight after the operation.
- Patients who have realistic expectations about the results of the operation and are willing to strictly follow the surgeon’s instructions during the recovery period.
Individuals Who Are Not Suitable for a Combined Operation:
- Those with uncontrolled chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease).
- Active smokers.
- Those with a history of blood clotting disorders.
- Individuals with a very high Body Mass Index (BMI), meaning they suffer from severe obesity. In this case, the priority is to complete the weight loss process first.
The Surgical and Recovery Process: A Step-by-Step Journey
Once the decision for surgery is made, what does the process look like? First, a personalized surgical plan is created for you. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a fully-equipped hospital. Typically, the tummy tuck is performed first, followed by the arm lift.
Initial Steps After Surgery:
- You may need to stay in the hospital for 1-2 nights after the surgery. During the first few days, you may feel pain, swelling, and tightness in both your abdomen and arms. This is expected and can be easily managed with pain medication.
- Lifting your arms may be challenging in the first few days. Therefore, it is important to have help with your daily activities.
The Course of Recovery:
- First week: Swelling and bruising are most pronounced. If you have drains, they will be removed during this period. Light activities like walking are recommended as they boost blood circulation and support healing.
- 2-4 weeks: Your swelling will significantly decrease, and you will start to feel much better. You can return to your daily routines and light social activities.
- After 6 weeks: Most restrictions are lifted. You can gradually return to lifting weights and engaging in intense sports activities.
- 6 months – 1 year: The final results become evident, and the surgical scars continue to mature, fade, and become less visible.
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
I also wanted to share the most common questions I receive from my patients at the clinic, along with my answers.
Q: Will the surgery leave permanent scars? A: Yes, as with any surgical procedure, there will be scars. However, we surgeons strategically place these scars in discreet locations. The tummy tuck scar is typically hidden below the underwear line, and the arm lift scar is placed on the inner side of the arm. Over time, these scars will fade and become much less noticeable.
Q: Is a combined operation more expensive? A: The total cost is generally more economical compared to having two separate surgeries. A single session for anesthesia and hospital use makes the cost more reasonable. However, it is, of course, more expensive than a single procedure. The exact price varies depending on the scope of the procedure.
Q: Will the skin sag again after the surgery? A: The results of the operation are permanent. However, like everything else in your body, your skin will continue to age. Significant weight gain, pregnancy, or advanced age can cause minor sagging to reappear. Therefore, a healthy diet and stable weight management are crucial for the longevity of the results.
Q: Can liposuction be done with it? A: Yes, liposuction is often performed alongside both tummy tuck and arm lift operations to further improve the contour and remove stubborn fat deposits. This combination helps us achieve a smoother and more sculpted silhouette.
Q: How can I hide the scars after the surgery? A: To help the scars heal faster and fade, you should regularly use special scar creams, silicone gels, or tapes recommended by your surgeon. Most importantly, you should not expose the scars to direct sunlight and should use a high-SPF sunscreen for at least 6 months.
The Right Consultation for the Right Decision
Combining arm lift and tummy tuck surgeries can be a life-changing decision that yields excellent results under the right conditions and for the right patient. However, before making this decision, do yourself a favor and have a detailed consultation with an experienced, honest, and transparent plastic surgeon. This is the most important step for both your health and the aesthetic outcomes you will achieve.
I wish you healthy and beautiful days. Dr. Ahmet Kaplan
