If I lose 20 lbs after my tummy tuck will that ruin my results? (photos)

Question

I have 2 kids and gained 50 lbs with each. I'm now getting myself on track and lost 30 lbs in 2015 and I'm aiming to lose 20-30 lbs in 2016. I had lipo of the abdomen before my weight loss and now I have excess skin because of the lipo and tummy tuck. I will discuss my concern with my surgeon during my pre-op on Wednesday. I am returning to my previous surgeon, he did my breasts and lipo. Any suggestions?

David L. Kaufman, MD FACS · Answer

First of all, congratulations on your
weight loss success so far. There is always a risk that the results of any body
contouring procedure can be affected with significant weight gain or loss. I
generally recommend that people be at or very near the weight that they plan to
maintain long-term. You could go ahead with the tummy tuck now, but my suggestion
would be to remain patient and wait until you’ve reached your weight loss goals
to ensure you’ll love your tummy tuck results for years to come. I would hate
to see you end up wanting or needing an additional tummy tuck down the road
when that scenario is avoidable.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.  It is advisable patients to reach their goal weight prior to undergoing a tummy tuck because you have stated, a concern is that they will have loose skin as a result of additional weight loss.  This excess skin can only be corrected by a tummy tuck revision.  Please keep in mind the possibility of having even more loose, excess skin as a result of further weight loss.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Weight loss after your surgery can affect your results. That’s why it’s best to be at a stable weight before surgery. However, depending on your body frame, 20lbs might not have a significant impact on your results.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question and photos. If you have a tummy tuck and  lose another 20-30 pounds, you may experience additional loose skin. I suggest you discuss your concerns with your board certified plastic surgeon and come up with an action plan for a future tummy tuck. Best wishes to you!#TT  #weightloss  #evaluation  #actionplan

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You appear to be in excellent shape to u derogatory a tummy tuck.  If you lose more weight after the tummy tuck, it probably won't cause a problem.  A more common problem we see is weight GAIN after a tummy tuck, so make sure that you at least maintain your weight and don't gain any.

Farah Naz Khan, MD · Answer

Best to get your TT once you lose all the weight so you get the best possible results. Based on just your photos, you will get a good result from a full TT. Good luck!!

Steven L. Ringler, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. Congratulations on your weight loss.  It is always best if you're at a stable weight, and one that you're comfortable with, prior to a tummy tuck.  It will give you the nicest result because you want all the excess skin removed possible, and if you have your procedure and then lose more weight, you could end up with a little more loose skin. I would also ask your surgeon if they are familiar with the Avelar technique where tummy tuck and liposuction are combined or progression tension suture technique of tummy tuck.  We use this technique, and it alleviates the need for surgical drains and often offers quicker recovery and fewer complications.  At least that has been my experience.  With two children I am sure you're hoping for the quickest recovery possible!  Best of luck to you.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for the question and photos. I typically recommend that my patients lose all the excess weight that they can and maintain that size for a few months prior to surgery. You will give your Plastic Surgeon more to work with and improve your results. You don't have far to go! All the best

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

I am a little confused as to whether or not you've had a tummy tuck already or you are having one soon. Regardless, you want to be at a maintainable weight before your surgery since yes, losing 30 pounds will affect your results. Don't try for some ideal weight. Rather, choose one that fits your lifestyle. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your weight loss. Most plastic surgeons suggest that you finish
having children and get your weight within 10 pounds of your ideal weight
before undergoing an abdominoplasty with repair of the stretched out abdominal
muscles , in order to achieve the best long
term cosmetic result with the least potential complications.Losing weight after surgery may compromise your results.

Following the advice of anyone who would presume
to tell youwhat to do based on two dimensional photos without taking a
full medical history, examining you, feeling and assessing your tissue tone,
discussing your desired outcome and fully informing you about the pros and cons
of each option would not be in your best interest. Find a plastic surgeon that
you are comfortable with and one that you trust and listen to his or her
advice.The surgeon should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
and ideally a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
(ASAPS). If you live outside of the United States, the surgeon should
ideally be a member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
(ISAPS). You should discuss your concerns with that surgeon in person.

Robert Singer, MD FACS

La Jolla, California.

If I lose 20 lbs after my tummy tuck will that ruin my results? (photos)

Answers (20)

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