Combining facial plastic surgeries can seem like an overwhelming commitment, but may be beneficial for the right patients. For most people, the recovery from one surgery can be scary and often, uncomfortable. However, combining two facial cosmetic procedures can allow patients to blend their recovery times into one, can often enhance the overall outcome of the procedures, and cut down on multiple operating room costs and recovery times. Adding multiple procedures does not significantly increase the overall recovery time of one procedure. It’s just the more areas are in a recovery phase at the same time.
The most common facial plastic surgeries that are combined are Rhinoplasty and Chin Augmentation. Rhinoplasty is often sought by individuals who wish to improve the appearance or proportionality of their nose or to correct breathing problems. The shape of the nose, chin and neck are all equally important to creating ideal facial proportions. If a patient has a long, pointy nose that is altered to be shorter and more rounded, their chin may seem less prominent than before. Often times, a chin may be too small for the face, requiring a chin implant to make it blend in better with the face and nose.
Chin augmentations are often requested by those who have weak chins or simply want to change the size and shape to be more proportional to other facial features. Sometimes, patients believe their nose is too big when actually; a balanced chin will make their nose appear much smaller. During a chin augmentation, a custom implant made of solid silicone or other specialized medical grade materials is placed through a tiny incision made just under the chin. Patients should be able to return to their normal activities in 5 to 7 days although bruising and swelling may last a bit longer.
Another popular combination of facial plastic surgery is a Facelift with Blepharoplasty (eyelid lift). The signs of aging are not limited to one area of the face. Correcting sagging skin on the face and neck will greatly improve one’s appearance, but if droopy eyelids and bags under the eyes are corrected, it can create better symmetry and facial harmony. Both Facelifts and Blepharoplasty have a fairly painless recovery period.
The most important factor in determining a patient’s suitability for multiple procedures is to meet with a dual board certified facial plastic surgeon. After thoroughly evaluating your medical history, physical conditions, and cosmetic expectations, the plastic surgeon will help the patient decide which surgeries are right for them.
