Stable weight, but would a 10lb loss before the surgery benefit or hinder?

Question

I'm over 60, 5 foot tall, 190 pounds. I have not had any weight lose surgery and have been stable at this weight for quite a few years. Thank you!I already went to 1 consult and I wasn't weighed there, so my guess was 190. However, I weighed myself at a friend's house and I am 184. I would think if I lost weight it was good if it was before the surgery. Yes, I will ask the Dr. when I get another consult and am ready to book. I'm over 60, 5 foot tall, 190 pounds. I have not had any weight lose surgery and have been stable at this weight for quite a few years. Thank you!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear MelGav,
congrats on the weight loss! Generally speaking, you want to reach your goal weight before you consider a surgery, 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

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding whether you should lose 10 lbs before or after surgery and whether it would be beneficial or a hindrance. I always advise my patients to lose as much weight as possible before surgery. I would not go on any crazy diets or exercise regimes. I would continue with your regular healthy diet and exercise. If you can lose 10 lbs, that would be great. If you cannot, that's okay too. The more important thing is that you're healthy. This can be determined by examining your blood, EKG, chest XRay, urinalysis, and stress test. These are tests we order before we operate on patients. Therefore, I would say losing 10lbs can only benefit your final result. Thanks for your question about losing weight before or after your surgery. 
 If you cannot find an experienced panniculectomy or lower body lift surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling out of state if you must. 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.)

Adam Kinal, MD · Answer

Dear MelGav, Thank you for your question. However, giving a proper assessment with an in-person examination is easier. Don't hesitate to contact several Board Certified Surgeons who specialize in these procedures to get their evaluation. Many surgeons have their requirements for a patient before surgery; therefore, after seeking several opinions, you must follow his instructions once you choose which surgeon is right for you. Good luck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is best if you complete planned weight loss prior to surgery.  This will give your surgeon the opportunity to maximize your results.  Significant weight loss after surgery could impact your results.  A ten pound weight loss will not likely make a sizeable difference but may help to improve your results.

H. Joseph Naim, MD, FACS · Answer

If you are in a heavier side, (BMI above 40-50 and above) definitely weight loss before surgery is beneficial, as it will reduce your liver size and make the surgery easier.
Losing weight will never hinder anything, as it will show that you have already started changing your lifestyle by eating healthier and choosing a lifestyle with more activity.
Some programs require a certain amount of percentage weigh loss before surgery for the two reasons that I mentioned. 
In our program we have no such a requirement, unless you are in a higher weigh category and we want to use all the options to make surgery safer.

Stable weight, but would a 10lb loss before the surgery benefit or hinder?

Answers (5)

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