If my BMI is over 35, can I still have surgery?

Question

My BMI is 37.6 my Sx Doctor said it shouldn't be over 35 if I can't lose these last couple pounds will this stop me from having surgery.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

Best to be at a healthy, stable weight for 6 months prior to surgery for optimal results.

The best way to assess and give
true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified
plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for this important question.Trying to lose weight before a surgical procedure its a very delicate matter, since in many cases a restrictive diet can cause problems, such as anemia, electrolyte disturbances, decreased protein, etc ... retarding the healing process and damaging the surgery.For these reasons, if your purpose is to lose weight, i recommend you have a BMI less or equal to 30.In this regard, you must to have a support with a nutritionist, so you can achieve the desired goal, in the most healthy way, without incressing complications risks in the plastic surgery to perform.On the other hand, I recommend you yo be treated by a board certified plastic surgeon, with special training in Plastic Surgery After Massive Weight Loss. Therefore, it will use different surgical techniques and special safety measures for ex- obese patients.It's very important to make a preparation weeks or even months before the surgery, advising the patient to take certain measures that helps to have a successful surgery with very good results.You only can perform multiple procedures at the same time if the blood work and pre-op cardiovascular evaluation are in optimal range that allows us to make a safe procedure.Respectfully,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol.-

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

Hi.. thank you for the question.. is near the limit... You can have your procedure done, but i suggest you to start working on loosing some weight while getting ready for your procedure, to have better results.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
To be a candidate for plastic surgery, in general, you need to be physically healthy and at a stable weight, have realistic expectations, be a non-smoker and your BMI needs to be 33 or less.
l recommend you to make an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon to talk about your goals and anything you need to know.
Good luck :)

Joshua A. Halpern, MD, PA · Answer

Thank you for your question. A very high BMI increases the patients risk for complications during surgery. You would need to be evaluated by a plastic surgeon, anesthesiologist, and your primary care physician to see if you are candidate to have surgery. I hope you find this information useful.

If my BMI is over 35, can I still have surgery?

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Answer: If my BMI is over 35, can I still have surgery?

Answer: If my BMI is over 35, can I still have surgery?

Answer: BMI of 35

Answer: BMI of 35

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If my BMI is over 35, can I still have surgery?

Answers (10)

Answer: If my BMI is over 35, can I still have surgery?

Answer: If my BMI is over 35, can I still have surgery?

Answer: BMI of 35

Answer: BMI of 35

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Brazilian Butt Lift

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