Can I get an arm lift and breast augmentation with a BMI of 39?

Question

I am 22 with a BMI of 39. I want to get an arm lift (as I lost 80 pounds) and breast augmentation. Do you think it is possible for a surgeon to agree to do these procedures as my BMI is high.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your weight loss.  The answer is yes you can have surgery done, but your risks are a bit higher then someone with a lower BMI.  Each surgeon will have their own protocol to follow.  I would recommend seeing a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in person and be evaluated.  Best of luck to you.

Stephen J. Delatte, MD · Answer

For best results following cosmetic surgery, it is better to be at your goal weight, and have a BMI closer to 31-33.  Higher BMI has greater risks for complications after surgery, such as delayed wound healing.

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well.. based in your question is recommended if lost weight and try to get BMI  31 to get surgery.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

If your BMI is 39, you probably have large breasts and the last thing you need is augmentation.  Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs.  With a BMI of 39, you are a poor candidate for surgery.  You would be at a high risk for complications such as blood clot, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia and poor wound healing.  I recommend you achieve your desired weight (BMI < 32) before you undergo any surgical procedure.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Philosophical7917,
Your BMI is very high, so you have a high risk of complications. In order to be a candidate for elective procedures, you should lose weight and reduce your BMI under 30. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to 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

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Different surgeons will have different opinions and comfort levels with regard to this so it is best to ask the individual surgeon at your virtual or in-office consultation.  The two main reasons for targeting a BMI close to 30 is to lower the risks of complications during and after surgery and the raise the probability of attaining your ultimate goals in one surgery.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Impossible to know without photos but it sounds like you may be a candidate for a tummy tuck.   Arm lifts however are almost never done at your age because of the scar involved. They would have to be very loose with a whole lot of extra skin.

Michael Dobryansky, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. In general your BMI should be much lower than 39 before cosmetic surgery. Since you are losing weight still, it is best to postpone surgery until your weight stabilizes anyway because you final result will be better. Also, your risk of complications goes down when surgery is done at lower BMI and your weight has been stable for a few months.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  In general it is best to be at a BMI of 30 or less before pursuing any type of aesthetic procedure.  Not only will this maximize your results but also will minimize the risks of the surgery.  Hope this helps.

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Ideally, you would like your BMI to be around 30 or less prior to body contouring procedure. See a board-certified plastic surgeon for a full evaluation and advice. Best,
  
Pejman Aflaki, M.D.
  
Johns Hopkins-trained double board-certified plastic surgeon

Can I get an arm lift and breast augmentation with a BMI of 39?

Answers (19)

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