Combining cosmetic procedures is an excellent way to achieve your aesthetic goals while saving time and recovery effort. But ensuring the safety of these combined procedures is essential.
Factors to Consider Before Combining Procedures
Surgery Length and Anesthesia Time
Most surgeons recommend limiting elective procedures to a maximum of 5-6 hours.
Prolonged time under anesthesia increases the risks of complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), blood clots, and other serious concerns.
Extended surgeries can also lead to a drop in body temperature, increasing the risk of infection, nausea, and slower recovery.
Also, the longer a surgery lasts, the higher the likelihood of surgeon fatigue, which can impact the quality of the results.

Your Overall Health
Younger patients without chronic conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, typically tolerate longer surgeries better. In contrast, older individuals or those with pre-existing health issues may face higher risks.
Smoking also poses significant risks, especially in procedures involving large skin flaps, like tummy tucks and facelifts. Smokers are more likely to experience complications, making it essential to stop smoking before surgery.
Types of Procedures Combined
Not all cosmetic procedures can be safely combined to achieve your high BMI goals. Some surgeries are complex and time-consuming, meaning adding additional major procedures may extend the operation too much.
Recovery and Mobility
Procedures that significantly impact your ability to move post-surgery, like a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) or tummy tuck, should be carefully planned.
Recovery protocols, such as needing to avoid pressure on the buttocks post-BBL, may conflict with the requirements of other surgeries, such as needing to lie on your back after a breast augmentation.
Best Practices in Combining Procedures
Get a Thorough Medical Evaluation
Your surgeon will likely recommend a series of tests, including blood work, ECG, and chest X-rays, depending on your age and medical history.
This evaluation helps ensure you’re healthy enough to undergo multiple procedures at once, minimizing the risk of complications.

Limit Surgery Time and Stage Procedures if Needed
When the expected surgical time exceeds 5-6 hours, staging the procedures may be a safer option.
For instance, if you’re planning a tummy tuck and breast augmentation, your surgeon might recommend performing them in two separate sessions to avoid the risks associated with prolonged anesthesia.
Look for Accredited Surgical Facilities
Ensure that your combined procedures are performed in an accredited facility that adheres to strict safety standards.
Accredited centers are equipped to handle the complexity of multiple surgeries, ensuring that you receive the highest level of care during and after the procedure.
Dr. Nick Masri is affiliated with accredited hospitals and surgical centers like the HCA Florida Aventura Hospital, Hialeah Hospital, and Mount Sinai Medical Center.

Plan for a Smooth Recovery
Be sure to arrange for the necessary downtime and follow all post-operative instructions. Wearing compression garments, managing wounds, and attending follow-up appointments are crucial steps to ensure a smooth recovery.
For moms, having a strong support system at home is vital to managing the recovery process while also caring for the family.
Regular follow-ups with your surgeon are critical when recovering from multiple procedures. This allows your surgeon to monitor your healing process, address any concerns, and adjust your recovery plan as needed.