I probably would add them on, since you could control the mesh on the 'visible' side. As for 50 buttons, the 'guppy' method often works..copy, paste, select 2, copy, paste, select 4..and so on..works for me..;) The more of an item, the simpler the mesh is the way to go..well, personal preference, but I've brought Wings to a sobbing halt with too many complicated objects..maybe Maya does better at this..
btw, you might drop by the Modeling Forum to ask them about this..

I wish I'd said that.. The Staircase Wit

anahl nathrak uth vas betude doth yel dyenvey..;)