Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Blog | Dr. Linderman

Over the last several years and increasing popularity of reality shows on television, the term Extreme Makeover has been used to describe various cosmetic surgical techniques performed on different areas of the body in a single surgical session. Common combinations include breast surgery, tummy tuck and liposuction. Other examples are multiple facial procedures such as facelift, brow lift and eyelid surgery. With the advent of bariatric surgery and extreme weight loss, patients present with multiple areas of skin excess. Removal of skin from the entire trunk with a body lift and breast lift surgery may be performed in one operative session. The combinations are limitless and the results that can be obtained can be marvelous.

Considering an Extreme Makeover?

The first question to consider is not whether the surgery can be done but whether it can be performed SAFELY while minimizing risks and
complications. In considering a patient for an extreme makeover, the surgeon must determine if the patient has realistic expectations and can he achieve them. Most importantly what is the patient’s overall health and are there additional risk factors such as smoking, diabetes or heart disease. The patient’s age, weight and history of previous surgical problems must be considered. Has your surgeon had significant experience in performing extreme makeovers? Having performed multiple extreme makeovers in my 30 years of practice, I generally will limit the length of anesthesia to six hours as it has been shown that complications do increase as the length of an operation exceeds this time period.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Extreme Makeover?

Combining surgeries in a single operative session allows multiple areas of treatment and a single recovery but the recovery may be slightly longer. Overall surgical, anesthesia and facility fees are less. Risks may be slightly higher but in properly selected patients, it is my opinion it is worthwhile to combine surgical procedures. If you are considering an Extreme Makeover, contact cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Richard Linderman