What kind of surgery do I qualify without trying to lose the weight if I'm 230lb?

Question

I'm a busy mom of 4 kids. With a full time job. I don't have time to work out. I want to do Mommy Makeover but I found out to be able to have that surgery I needed to lose weight.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

If other plastic surgeons have told you that they would like you to lose weight prior to your procedure, they have your best interest in mind. Calculate your BMI from your height and weight and if it’s greater than 30, realize that most plastic surgeons do not want to operate because the rate of complications is higher in people whose BMI is greater than 30 and the results are not as good. If you’re undergoing an elective procedure, it makes the most sense to get the best results in the safest fashion.  Best wishes.

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Losing weight is a great start for a whole body transformation for patients who have had kids. But depending on the patient, Mommy Makeover can be combined with Liposuction. If you are in the range of "healthy" BMI, you can have this surgery. Liposuction can help to get rid of the excess fat. If there is excess skin left as well, a tummy tuck can be performed. The wise thing to do would be having a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. There are certain BMI (Body Mass Index) requirements for plastic surgery. The BMI is based on your height and weight. You can calculate your BMI using an online BMI calculator. That said, my BMI max limit for a mommy makeover is 33. If you are above the BMI limit, you should consult with your physician on a weight loss plan to prepare for the procedure. Please always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Take care, Moises Salama MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

Most surgeons have BMI (weight/height ratio) requirements for patients to qualify to surgery to decrease complications and improve results. If your surgeon suggests weight loss to improve results, there is a good reason. It is somewhat tough to think you will have time for surgery but not to try to improve your fitness.

David Dorfman, MD · Answer

It is best for patients to be at a BMI of 30 or less for surgeries- if one's BMI is greater than 30, there is a greater risk for complications as well as limitation in results. It is important to our practice that we provide the best and safest patient outcomes. However, every individual's needs are different, it is best to come in for a consultation to better assess what we can provide for you!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, you did not state your height. From your height and weight, you can calculate your BMI. I recommend you begin a low fat diet, core exercises such as sit-ups, planks, pilates and consult a weight loss physician. Liposuction can be performed to safely remove 10 lbs during one session and can be repeated if necessary.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Maria4450,
generally speaking, you want to reach your goal weight before you consider a surgery, 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

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Unfortunately without knowing your goals, full medical history and current status of your tissues it is impossible to offer advice.

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Please understand that a Mommymakeover is a body contouring procedure and not a weight loss procedure.  Having surgery at a proper weight will not only give you better and longer lasting results, but it will also make for a safer procedure. If the surgeon felt you did not qualify for surgery, it was for you safety. Being a mom of 4, I’m sure you can appreciate that.

Try to calculate your BMI so that you know how much you really need to lose. This is calculated with your height and weight. You can find apps for this, or you can just calculate it online. Depending on your height, your Body Mass Index might not be too far off.

Best of Luck,
Dr. Miguel Mota

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

HI Maria,
   There are several major risks in performing a Mommy Makeover, especially if you are thinking about a Tummy Tuck. The most concerning would be a blood clot in your legs that could go to your lungs and cause a Pulmonary Embolism which could result in your death. Also if you cannot lose weight, which does not involve just working out  but diet control as well, you will gain the weight back and the surgery 
will not help you in the long run.

Please follow your surgeon's instructions.

Best,

Dr. Christine Rodgers

What kind of surgery do I qualify without trying to lose the weight if I'm 230lb?

Answers (16)

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