Arm Reduction with Lymphectomy

I am currently undergoing breast cancer treatment.  I am scheduled late this summer to have a double mastectomy (left side is a prophylatic measure) with a lymphectomy in the right armpit.  At the same time as my mastectomies a plastic surgeon will do reconstruction of both breasts.  Does anyone know if it's possible to have an armlift at the same time as the lymphectomy?  My batwings are horrible.  

That's really a question for the plastic surgeon, but I suspect the additional procedure will keep you under anesthesia for too long.  Keep in mind as well that your lymphatic system is going to be under attack due to the mastectomy/lymph node removal.  Adding more disruption to your lymphatic system isn't the best idea...there's a risk of lymphedema.

Pooh, that what I was afraid of.  My consult with my plastic surgeon is on 5/2.  I planned on asking him but thought someone in the know here might have an answer in advance of my appt.  Thank you for your reply.

I don't know for sure - but when I had my UBL consult with Dr Capella I learned that he does the implants (if needed) 6 months later - after the UBL surgery.  I assume this is to lessen the stress on the inscisions as they heal, but I would definately ask the question -- I would rather get it all done at once. If you are just doing the arm lift and not the entire UBL, it might be easier to combine.

The reconstruction doesn't usually/always involve implants. They usually transfer fat from a local area. I would still ask the PS, only they can answer your question.

My oncologist surgeon said that I will probably first have expanders, then the breast implants will be put in after my 33 radiation treatments.  If the upper arm reduction can't be done at the same time as the lymphectomy, I wonder if it will even be possible to have it at all.  I will know what the plan is after I see the PS on 5/2. 

I think it depends on the surgeon, I also think it would lesson the stress on the necessary surgery you will be having. If they are well trained in microsurgery I would think would be important as well.

When I had my brachioplasty years ago, my arms felt so much lighter, it's definitely worth asking about all the pro's and con's.

Multiple procedures are very common today. I think to have the safest and ideal choice in this situation would be to find reputable plastic surgeon in the are convenient for you. Also don't forget to consider the surgeon's extensive experience so as to assure that he indeed specialize in performing multiple procedures the way you wish to have.

I reread your post - I don't know why not, unless the surgery would just be too long to be safe. If they normally do the UBL and arms at the same time, what you are asking might be a possibility. 

I had my brachioplasty done as soon as I got to goal, so I understand wanting to get rid of the batwings ASAP, but are you sure you want to deal with this in the middle of your fight against breast cancer? Can you just wait until you are stronger and your battle is won?  I just would not want you to take on too much right now. My advice would be to take care of your health now, then get rid of the wings later.