How long should I maintain my weight loss before moving forward with a tummy tuck?

Question

How long should you wait before having a tummy tuck? I have been losing weight through diet and exercise. I was planning on waiting 3-6 months before getting a consult for tummy tuck or mommy makeover. Is there a required amount of time you need to maintain weight before getting a tummy tuck?

Albert Ko, MD · Answer

I usually reccomend a stable weight for at least 3 months prior to surgery, but its not a rule by any means! I have patients that continue to go on and lose 5-15lbs more after surgery and it only makes their result better.Hope that helps and good luck!

Martin Benjamin, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello! First of all, congrats on the weight loss! You have done all of the hard work already!
I typically ask my patients how their weight has fluctuated over the past 6 months if they are considering a tummy tuck procedure. Ideally I like to see less than a 10-15 lbs weight fluctuation for at least 3-6 months. There really is no required time you need to maintain a weight goal before getting a tummy tuck but we want to make sure that you are at a happy weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle to maintain those long term results. Good luck!

Brandon Richland, MD · Answer

Hi Sarah,
While different surgeons vary in their recommendations, I typically advise my patients to be within 5-10 pounds of their goal weight with their weight having been stable for a minimum of 3 months. A healthy BMI is between 15 - 24, the maximum recommended being around 30. If you are above 30, then you are encouraged to lose weight before undergoing surgery. The higher the BMI the higher the chance of complications.
An in person or virtual consultation with a tummytuck specialist will provide you an accurate recommendation and pricing. 
Respectfully,Brandon Richland, MD

Morad Askari, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is advisable to wait until you have reached your weight loss goals before undergoing a tummy tuck, for the best possible outcome. Also, to ensure the best results, it is recommended to wait until you have stabilized your weight for a period of 3 to 6 months before scheduling surgery.

Richard A. Bartlett, MD · Answer

It would be preferable to be at your ideal, healthy weight (through diet and exercise) for about two months before moving forward with an Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck). Once you have achieved this healthy weight, you should reach out to your Plastic Surgeon to inquire about their pre-operative weight maintenance requirements.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @sarah0335, thank you for your question. To make an informed recommendation. More information is needed. A consultation is vital to establishing a surgical plan that meets your needs, meets your expectations, and takes into account what is possible. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If you are not planning future pregnancies, I recommend abdominoplasty with mesh reinforcement. The mesh creates a more hourglass figure by compressing the abdominal wall resulting in early satiety and helps maintain a reduced weight. You do not need to wait 3-6 months for stabilization prior to surgery.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

A goal weight would be preferred, but a stable, maintainable, healthy weight would suffice prior to having tummy tuck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear sarah0335,
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 surgery, I would suggest you 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

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. I would recommend that you reach your goal weight and a BMI of 30 (or less) for 3 months before considering a tummy tuck.

How long should I maintain my weight loss before moving forward with a tummy tuck?

Answers (18)

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