Would I be eligible for US army fitness test after tummy tuck due to massive weight loss?

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding eligibility for the U.S. Army fitness test after undergoing a tummy tuck and chest contouring surgery following major weight loss. First, congratulations on your 100-pound weight loss — that’s a major achievement and shows your dedication to transforming your body and health.

From a surgical standpoint, you can absolutely undergo an extended tummy tuck and gynecomastia surgery (male chest reduction) and still be eligible for the military. However, a few important conditions must be met:

You must be fully healed and cleared by your surgeon before beginning or resuming intense physical activity. Healing after a tummy tuck and chest surgery can take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity of your procedure and your individual recovery.

You must meet the Army’s physical fitness standards at the time of enlistment or testing. These include passing the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), maintaining the required Body Fat Percentage, and being physically capable of performing your duties.

Your surgeries must not leave you with physical limitations. If your surgeries result in any restrictions in mobility, strength, or endurance, this could be a concern during your military medical evaluation. However, most patients who undergo these procedures — especially those who were already highly motivated — go on to meet or exceed physical expectations once they’ve healed.

It’s also worth noting that cosmetic surgeries like tummy tucks or gynecomastia correction are not disqualifying as long as:

They do not impair your physical function

There are no complications or medical dependencies as a result of the procedure

You are not actively recovering or under post-operative restrictions during military screening

Once you’re fully healed, cleared by your plastic surgeon, and training regularly again, you should be able to successfully pass all fitness tests and meet enlistment standards.

I encourage you to speak with both a board-certified plastic surgeon and a military recruiter or MEPS medical officer for personalized advice and documentation requirements. You're clearly motivated and committed — and that counts for a lot.

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, MBA, FASMBS, FICS

Congratulations on your weight loss. There shouldn’t be any issues, as your body will function the same if not better without the excess fat and skin. That being said, double check with your local recruiter to make sure. Abdominoplasty and gynecomastia surgeries would not impede your abilities to pass any fitness tests as long as you have yourself a good month to heal completely. Would love to see you here at Smith Plastic Surgery to go over how we can help you reach your body goals.

The fact that you've had cosmetic surgery should not affect your candidacy to participate in required military fitness tests (I used to be a General Surgeon in the US Navy). Have fun !