Low Carb Dieting Before and After a Tummy Tuck Recommended?

The best time to have a Tummy Tuck is when you reach a stable state financially, emotionally and physiologically; when you have completed your family, can afford it, and have a stable, non-fluctuating weight for several months. While a high protein / low carb diet is usually healthy, I would not recommend any new diets just before having a Tummy Tuck. "Test drive'" the diet for a few months and make sure you tolerate it well before having your Tummy Tuck.

Peter A Aldea, MD
Memphis, TN

A “low carb” diet is what everyone should be on. Most people eat about 70-90% of their calories as carbohydrates. By changing this to more closely resemble the ideal of only 40% of calories as carbs with protein and fat each making up 30%, you can maintain your weight where it should be. If you are going to modify your diet, you should reduce the sodium if possible by adding no salt and reading labels of anything bought already prepared. Sodium causes water retention and this could cause some postoperative swelling. The rest is just the result of the surgery and there is nothing you can do to reduce it. Continue your good eating habits and good luck with your surgery.