Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck while having a BMI of 41? (Photo)

Question

I originally wanted a bbl but I couldn’t get my BMI less then 35. I found a doctor who takes higher BMI that is board certified. I’m overall healthy and don’t have any underlying conditions . It has just been hard for me to lose weight. I was 275lbs. I’m now 250lbs and my height is 5’5. My skin is also very lose and can be pinched.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Maddie1995,
generally speaking, you want to reach your goal weight before you consider a tummy tuck, otherwise your results will be suboptimal if you continue to lose weight after the surgery. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From your photos and description it does not appear you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck at this time.  Those with a higher BMI have increased risk of complications from surgery including seroma, infection, and poor wound healing.  They also often have sub par results.  I encourage you to meet with your physician about a weight loss program before considering a tummy tuck.

Vasileios Vasilakis, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for the question. I understand that it can be very tough, but trying to lose weight and lower your BMI will really benefit you. It will decrease your chance of having a complication, also the cosmetic result will be improved. I wish you the best of luck. Vasileios Vasilakis, MD. Fellowship-trained plastic surgeon.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  Although each practice will have their own weight restrictions a BMI of 40+ carries significant risks and I would defer any procedure until your weight is lower.  Due to the difficulty in weight loss, you may wish to consider a bariatric procedure.  Best wishes.

Ali Gurlek, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.you need a full tummy tuck.
A tummy tuck can remove loose, excess skin and fat, and tighten weak fascia. A tummy tuck can also remove stretch marks and excess skin in the lower abdomen below the bellybutton. However, a tummy tuck won't correct stretch marks outside of this area.
If you've previously had a C-section, your plastic surgeon might be able to incorporate your existing C-section scar into your tummy tuck scar.
A tummy tuck can also be done in combination with other body contouring cosmetic procedures, such as breast surgery. If you've had fat removed from your abdomen (liposuction), you may decide to have a tummy tuck because liposuction removes tissue just under the skin and fat but not any excess

Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck while having a BMI of 41? (Photo)

Answers (5)