Can I still lower my body fat & gain muscle post-op if I stay the same weight?

Thank you for your question regarding whether you can gain muscle mass while maintaining your current weight after reconstructive procedures, namely a lower body lift and upper body lift, after significant weight loss. The simple answer is yes. As you probably know, the best way to gain muscle mass is by having a moderate carb, high protein, low sugar, non-alcohol diet. In addition, you should try to exercise aerobically and with resistance training to build up muscle bulk. Therefore, if you follow these conscientiously, you should be able to build muscle mass. During the recovery period, after your plastic surgery procedures, I would suggest you try to ingest approximately 1.2 to 1.5 grams protein per kilogram of body weight. To calculate your body weight in kilograms, divide your weight in pounds by 2.2. 170 pounds translates to 77 kilograms. In general, depending on your body weight, this can mean anywhere from 80 to 120 g of protein a day. In your case, it would be a daily protein intake of 92-115 grams of protein per day. Most of my patients achieve this with protein drinks and protein shakes if they are unable to meet their protein needs through food. I highly suggest Premier protein as a supplemental beverage to increase your protein intake because of its low sugar content versus high protein content. There are other brand names out there but be careful of the sugar content. Your caloric requirements are difficult to approximate because you did not mention your height and everybody’s caloric requirements are different after surgery. The exact measurements are achieved by measuring CO2 while you are on a ventilator. As you can imagine this would not be possible during the recovery period. Therefore I would rely more on protein intake than caloric intake. However, if your goal is to maintain body weight while increasing muscle mass, you must ingest sufficient calories. Also make sure you ingest sufficient fluids. Because a high protein diet can add stress to your kidneys, I would recommend a consult with a registered dietitian to ensure that your diet is well balanced and meets your nutritional needs without compromising your health. Thank you for your question regarding whether you can stay the same weight while gaining muscle post-op after a lower body and upper body lift.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Congratulations on your impressive weight loss! After you are healed from surgery and cleared by your surgeon to resume exercise you can continue to sculpt and define your muscles. You will want to speak to your surgeon or a nutritionist about specific dietary questions. Typically maintaining a balanced diet is sufficient, though some prefer to add more protein during recovery.

Dear Adventurous733601,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery