Do you need to lose weight to have a drainless tummy tuck if you are also getting lipo? If so, how much?

Question

I am 5'2 and 160 I am losing weight at the moment but I don't want to wait until I am at my goal weight to have a T.T. After 4 kids I am over my mom belly, the Stubborn fat that makes me look pregnant at the top of my stomach & the excess skin. A friend of mine took 6 months to lose 20 pounds and finally had her T.T. So my question is would I be able to receive lipo along with my drainless TT instead of waiting 3+ months?

Luke J. Curtsinger, MD · Answer

You absolutely will improve your aesthetic results and decrease complications the closer you get to your ideal body weight before TT, drain or no drain.  You are also a better drainless candidate the closer you get to your ideal body weight.  Looking 'Pregnant at the top of your stomach' concerns me.  Discuss with your plastic surgeon as to what this is.  It could be deep visceral fat, loose muscle or superficial fat.  Know the plan ahead of time so you are not disappointed.

Richard J. Restifo, MD · Answer

In general , Drainless Tummy Tuck does not work well unless you are at an ideal body weight.  Also, liposuction will increase the fluid production and make it less likely that a drainless Tummy Tuck would be successful.  Best to be closer to your ideal weight.  Best wishes.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It is usually recommended that patients who have recently experienced weight loss and massive weight loss (#MWL) remain consistent at their weight for at least six to twelve months prior any cosmetic surgery. Such will better ensure longer lasting results of the procedure without risking the fluctuation and stretching of the skin tissue. Your board-certified plastic surgeon will recommend the type best suited for you and if #liposuction is necessary. The most important decision to be made before performing any surgical procedure is determining whether you are an ideal #candidate. It's best to begin consulting with a board certified plastic surgery to learn if you are a candidate for either liposuction and/or a tummy tuck. If so, you will then learn more about which #technique will work best for you and your goals.

Francesco Campanile, MD · Answer

You'll see the best results from your tummy tuck if you're within a few pounds of your target weight, and you're confident you can maintain that weight long-term after your tummy tuck as well. At your current height and weight, you're at the high end of the normal range, just under obese. Being overweight during any surgery, including a tummy tuck, can not only compromise your results but also increases your risk of complications. I encourage you to schedule your consultation now, and afterwards proceed based on your plastic surgeon's recommendation. Best of luck to you.

Laura A. Sudarsky, MD (retired) · Answer

I suggest loosing 1/2 of the weight first, the get your consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Your BMI should be 30 or less to have a safe outcome. Costs start at about $6500.

Do you need to lose weight to have a drainless tummy tuck if you are also getting lipo? If so, how much?

Answers (5)

Answer: The best tummy tuck candidates are at or near their target weight.

Answer: The best tummy tuck candidates are at or near their target weight.

Answer: Tummy tuck and weight loss

Answer: Tummy tuck and weight loss

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Everything you need to know about Drainless Tummy Tuck

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Do you need to lose weight to have a drainless tummy tuck if you are also getting lipo? If so, how much?

Answers (5)

Answer: The best tummy tuck candidates are at or near their target weight.

Answer: The best tummy tuck candidates are at or near their target weight.

Answer: Tummy tuck and weight loss

Answer: Tummy tuck and weight loss

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Drainless Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.