High BMI - how can I get it down so I can have a tummy tuck?

Dear QueenNika88,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hello QueenNika88. Thank you for your question regarding how to effectively lower your BMI to become a suitable candidate for a tummy tuck, especially given your concerns about back pain from hanging abdominal fat.

Lowering your BMI involves a combination of diet, exercise, and possibly medical interventions, especially considering your condition of low thyroid, which can often make weight loss more challenging. Here are some steps you can take:

Consult with a Healthcare Provider: Since you have a thyroid condition, it's essential to manage this effectively as it can significantly impact your metabolism and overall ability to lose weight. Work with your doctor to ensure your thyroid hormone levels are well-controlled.

Nutritional Counseling: Consult a dietitian or a nutritionist who can help you design a meal plan that reduces calories but still provides all the necessary nutrients. Given your busy lifestyle as a mother to three children, having practical and manageable dietary advice is crucial.

Increase Physical Activity: Incorporating regular exercise that combines both cardiovascular and strength training can help reduce fat and build muscle. Since you already have a considerable muscle mass, focusing on exercises that enhance muscle tone and increase metabolic rate can be particularly effective. Activities like walking, cycling, swimming, and resistance training might be beneficial.

Behavioral Changes: Implementing sustainable lifestyle changes can have a significant impact. This includes eating smaller portions, choosing healthier snacks, reducing intake of processed foods and sugars, increasing hydration, and ensuring you get adequate sleep.

Weight Loss Medications: Given your medical background, discussing weight loss medications with your healthcare provider might be another avenue to explore. Some medications can help manage appetite and improve weight loss outcomes. These medications will be important to stop taking prior to your surgery (speak to your chosen plastic surgeon about this).

Prepare for Surgery: As you work on lowering your BMI, also discuss with a plastic surgeon the best timing for a tummy tuck. They can provide guidance on an ideal BMI range for surgery to ensure the best outcomes and lowest risk of complications.

Support System: Engaging family and friends as a support network can also help in your weight loss journey. Joining groups or forums where others share similar goals can provide encouragement and motivation.

By taking a comprehensive approach to weight loss, focusing on diet, exercise, and proper medical management of your thyroid condition, you can work towards lowering your BMI to a level where a tummy tuck becomes a safe and effective option to address your abdominal concerns.

Good luck on your journey to a healthier you. I hope these suggestions help you achieve your goals and eventually lead to a successful tummy tuck procedure.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon