My BMI is 34, so can I have a tummy tuck?

losing weight will greatly reduce your surgical risks and certainly improve your results. Seek a plastic surgeon who performs hundreds of these procedures and is an expert in this field.

The best long term cosmetic results with the least likelihood of potential complications are achieved in patients who weigh within 10 pounds of their ideal weight and have a BMI less than 30.Keep in mind that following advice from a surgeon on this or any other website who proposes to tell you what to do based without examining you, physically feeling your tissue, assessing your desired outcome, taking a full medical history and discussing the pros and cons of each operative procedure would not be in your best interest. I would suggest that you find a surgeon certified by the American Board of American Plastic Surgery and one who is ideally a member of The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) that you trust and are comfortable with. You should discuss your concerns with that surgeon in person. Robert Singer, M.D., FACSLa Jolla, California

As with any surgery we do, the most important job we have is managing expectations with reality. If you are having a "tummy tuck" with the expectation that its going to take care of your lack of exercise and poor diet, unfortunately you will be disappointed. If you are looking for a procedure to remove excess skin so you can exercise and so you won't have recurrent skin breakdown and infections, a panniculectomy (and not a tummy tuck) may be something you need. Remember, its not a cosmetic procedure, its a procedure that will allow you to begin a life change. Good luck, Dr Frank.