If you have researched tummy tuck surgery, you have no doubt seen references to candidates needing to be at or near their ideal weight.
However, not everyone who wants to improve the look and muscle tone of their abdomen has a BMI in the 18.5 to 24.9 range. This brings up the question: is weight loss before a tummy tuck important?
Plus-Size Tummy Tucks do Exist
Being overweight or obese does not mean you can’t get a tummy tuck, but it does make surgery more complicated.
A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure, even when performed on overweight or obese clients. However, it can address body contouring concerns as well as tighten the muscles, which might be beneficial in helping the individual become more active. Overall, overweight and obese clients who get abdominoplasty are happy with their results.
With that said, the surgery is seen as riskier in these clients, as they are more likely to suffer complications and struggle with healing. As such, just from a safety perspective, weight loss in advance of surgery is best.
Weight Loss after Surgery Compromises the Results
Another reason surgeons prefer clients to be at their goal weight before a tummy tuck is that losing weight after surgery can compromise the results. The contoured shape can be lost and sagging skin can be left behind, leaving the client with the choice of living with an abdomen that isn’t their ideal or getting another surgery. However, if a client is overweight or obese and does not desire to lose more weight, they could adjust their shape through the surgery.
Clients should keep in mind that once their abdominal muscles are repaired through the surgery, they might become naturally more active, which could result in unintentional weight loss.
If you are curious about whether or not you should lose weight before a tummy tuck, now is the time to find out. Contact us to schedule your consultation.
Author: Dr. Stephen M. Davis
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen M. Davis and his experienced team are committed to total patient satisfaction and excellent results. Green Hills Plastic Surgery first opened its doors in Nashville, TN in 1998 and continues to provide patients with time-honored plastic surgery procedures at TriStar Centennial Medical Center.
