You are doing great!

Michael A. Bogdan, MD answers: When do I know I have reached my goal weight for a tummy tuck?

I have had bariatric surgery and have lost 74lbs, I am down to 136lbs and been at that weight for about 1.5 months. More importantly I am off of my diabetic medications. I am 5'2" and want to have a tummy tuck but because of the extra skin I am not sure where my weight should be. I wast thinking about 125 but I am wondering because I am small in stature should I go lower? Please advise.


Michael A. Bogdan, MD
13 months ago

Congratulations on your weight loss! It is wonderful that your diabetes has improved. Based on what you have written, at this point you certainly could consider body contouring surgery. In general, before considering surgical contouring, you want to be at a stable weight (for several months) that is within 10% of your personal goal weight. Your "personal goal weight" is something that is fluid and changing with time. When you first start considering weight loss, you can look at a height chart and pick a goal weight. The BMI scale is good for this:
http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/
However, once you loose a large amount of weight and start a healthy exercise regime, you may find that you plateau. If you keep your weight stable for a number of months, while having a healthy diet and maintainable exercise program, it is then reasonable to reassess your goal weight. The BMI charts are a nice guide and tool, but there is no number set in stone as to when you should consider body contouring.
That being said, your BMI is 25, you sound healthy, and you are within 10% of your low goal - it is a good time to start consulting with a surgeon!

2 of 2 found this helpful
Helpful?

Request info from Dr. Bogdan

Special offers
5% "Thank You" for Public Service
5% off Surgeon's Fee for: teachers, healthcare workers, law enforcement, military, and firemen. Not valid with other offers.
Expires Dec 30 2009
Offers don't imply eligibility for a medical procedure. All applicable federal, state and local laws apply. Void where prohibited.
50 words maximum (0 words entered)
Your info is protected by our privacy policy
Post your question

Tummy tuck before & after photos

Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.