This would be a good question for Bax, I have never had anyone ask before. Be nice to see what answer Bax would have. I have never had to change a rod or piston in a two stroke. I have completely worn out a couple of the old OS LA .40s and just retired them. I have only replaced one piston and rod but in a very well used YS four stroke and that was after what the NASCAR boys call having my engine blowed up. Broke the rod in half and the crown of the piston was almost completely separated. Just too many hard miles on it but the engine was worth the time and money to rebuild.
Be helpful to know what engine and brand the OP is asking about though. Some engines are worth the effort and some are cheaper to just replace.