200lbs down with a current BMI of 26.7 and a tentative goal weight that would put me around 24.3. I often see doctors discuss a maximum BMI limit, but there seems to be less discussion of an ideal BMI For body contouring (and if it might be higher than a calculated “ideal weight.” ). Is there any truth to the idea that BMI body contouring results might be better slightly above a BMI of 25 than below? It's hard to go by look alone when you have so much excess skin.
January 7, 2025
Answer: Weight loss Dear Persistent123642, 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
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January 7, 2025
Answer: Weight loss Dear Persistent123642, 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
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December 9, 2024
Answer: Health Over BMI for Post-MWL Body Contouring Hello, and thank you for your question regarding the ideal BMI for post-weight loss body contouring. First, let me congratulate you on your incredible 200-pound weight loss—what an achievement! To address your question, it's true that body contouring at a slightly higher BMI can sometimes produce more noticeable and dramatic results due to the amount of excess tissue removed. However, I don’t recommend striving for dramatic results at a higher BMI. Instead, I encourage patients to focus on reaching and maintaining their lowest achievable and stable BMI before surgery. Operating at a lower BMI is generally safer and allows for a smoother recovery. Additionally, reducing your BMI as much as possible will minimize the amount of visceral fat, making muscle repair easier and improving the overall contour of your body. Even though your current BMI of 26.7 is within a healthy range, achieving your goal weight and a BMI closer to 24.3 will likely provide a more refined, natural outcome after surgery. Excess skin can sometimes make it difficult to gauge your true frame. For this reason, it’s important to consult with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your body composition and help you develop a plan tailored to your goals. With your weight loss success and thoughtful approach, I’m confident you’ll achieve fantastic results. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen
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December 9, 2024
Answer: Health Over BMI for Post-MWL Body Contouring Hello, and thank you for your question regarding the ideal BMI for post-weight loss body contouring. First, let me congratulate you on your incredible 200-pound weight loss—what an achievement! To address your question, it's true that body contouring at a slightly higher BMI can sometimes produce more noticeable and dramatic results due to the amount of excess tissue removed. However, I don’t recommend striving for dramatic results at a higher BMI. Instead, I encourage patients to focus on reaching and maintaining their lowest achievable and stable BMI before surgery. Operating at a lower BMI is generally safer and allows for a smoother recovery. Additionally, reducing your BMI as much as possible will minimize the amount of visceral fat, making muscle repair easier and improving the overall contour of your body. Even though your current BMI of 26.7 is within a healthy range, achieving your goal weight and a BMI closer to 24.3 will likely provide a more refined, natural outcome after surgery. Excess skin can sometimes make it difficult to gauge your true frame. For this reason, it’s important to consult with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your body composition and help you develop a plan tailored to your goals. With your weight loss success and thoughtful approach, I’m confident you’ll achieve fantastic results. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen
Helpful