A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is becoming one of the most popular procedures for men and women with a high BMI or body/mass index. A tummy tuck removes hanging skin and abdominal fat and tightens abdominal muscles that have separated or weakened due to excessive weight gain. People with stretch marks are thrilled to discover that most of these disappear with the removal of excess skin.
While it is preferred that patients have reached their optimum weight before surgery, patients with a high BMI can benefit from a “plus-size tummy tuck.” Abdominoplasty can eliminate excess skin and fat to attain a flatter stomach and a more traditionally attractive figure, providing a confidence and self-esteem boost for people with those aesthetic goals.
BMI Measures Your Weight Against Your Height
BMI can be used as a screening tool but does not diagnose an individual’s body fatness or health. This screening method categorizes a person’s weight in the following ways:
- Underweight
- Healthy weight
- Overweight
- Obesity
It is important to note that while the connection between BMI and body fatness is evident, even if two people have the same BMI, their level of body fatness may differ. So, the accuracy of BMI as an indicator of your body fatness should be determined by your surgeon during your initial tummy tuck consultation.
You Can Get a Tummy Tuck With a High BMI
If your BMI says that you are overweight but not obese, a tummy tuck may be a good option for you. Your physical health is the most significant factor to consider with a plus-size tummy tuck. Regardless of your BMI, you must be in good health to undergo surgery without an increased risk of complications. However, if your goal is to lose significant weight, you should consider waiting on your tummy tuck. Losing a lot of weight can cause issues with excess skin, so you would likely need a revision tummy tuck if you have the initial procedure too soon.
Some other factors to consider when deciding whether a tummy tuck is right for you are:
- A tummy tuck with a high BMI will likely include additional liposuction to smooth the flanks, lower back, and abdomen
- If you can’t maintain your weight at the time of your procedure, you’ll likely regain fat in your stomach area
- While it’s safe to have children after a tummy tuck, pregnancy may ruin your results and could require revision surgery afterward
- Patients with asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease may not be a good candidate for a tummy tuck with a high BMI
You Do Not Need to Lose Weight Before Getting a Tummy Tuck With a High BMI
While it would be ideal for each patient to be at a perfect weight before getting a tummy tuck procedure, this is unrealistic and may not even produce the best possible results. Dr. Repta has found that the tummy tuck process alone can result in improved shape and additional weight loss when designed and performed correctly. The extra weight you may struggle to lose may not prevent you from getting an excellent tummy tuck result.
If you plan on losing a significant amount of weight, delaying your tummy tuck may be reasonable to avoid residual loose skin after the weight loss. However, if the weight loss is moderate, such as 20-30 pounds, a tummy tuck can be performed. That amount of weight loss is often jump-started by the tummy tuck procedure, and the overall tummy tuck result will not be negatively affected in any way.
Dr. Repta Can Give You the Tummy Tuck of Your Dreams
Dr. Repta is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Scottsdale with many years of experience helping patients with a higher BMI achieve their body shape goals. If your weight is stable and you are in good health, he can provide a surgical plan that will safely and effectively produce ideal results.
As one of the most reputable cosmetic surgeons in Scottsdale, Dr. Repta believes in empowering his patients to make the correct decisions for themselves. Dr. Repta curates each procedure to your individual needs, ensuring that you have natural-looking results that you’re proud of.
