Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

Question

I'm 5' and 220 lbs, I've had 5 children and I've always been able to loose alittle bit of weight then I just gain it back. I want to just get a tummy tuck to finally get rid of the fat. I was a Double 0 before my kids and now 13 years later i'm a size 18.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. Many people think of Tummy Tuck surgery as a fast track to weight loss but they are dissapointed to learn that it is a cosmetic procedure designed to contour, repair and remove excess skin from the abdomen- not designed for significant weight loss. The safety risks for surgery increase with obesity and likelihood of sub optimal results or poor healing would also increase. Most plastic surgeons would want your BMI to be 30 or less to ensure great results and patient safety. I recommend that you meet with a specialist who can help you lose the excess weight before considering a Tummy Tuck surgery. In cases of massive weight loss and post bariatric surgery, a panniculectomy which removes only the excess apron of skin at the lower abdomen, may help to increase mobility and may be covered by medical insurance. Perhaps a conversation with your primary care physician would be a good place to start planning.All the best

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

Most plastic surgeons suggest that you finish having children, get your weight within 10 pounds of your ideal weight, and have a BMI less than 30 before undergoing an abdominoplasty with repair of the stretched out abdominal muscles and liposuction of selective areas, in order to achieve the best long term cosmetic result with the least potential complications.
 
 Keep in mind that following advice from a surgeon on this or any other website who proposes to tell you what to do without examining you, physically feeling your tissue, assessing your desired outcome, taking a full medical history and discussing the pros and cons of each operative procedure would not be in your best interest. I would suggest that you find a surgeon certified by the American Board of American Plastic Surgery and one who is ideally a member of The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) that you trust and are comfortable with. You should discuss your concerns with that surgeon in person. 
 
 Robert Singer, M.D., FACS 
 
 La Jolla, California

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question it sound like you are a good candidate for a full tuck with muscle repair,if you lose a bit more  weight your outcome will be much better,consult in person with a board certified PS,

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
  
Thanks for the question and provided information as well. 
  
Weighting 220 lbs increase the risk of complications during and after your surgery, the BMI range is 30 and it is important have a stable weight in order to have any surgical process. 
  
Also you can make an appointment with a board plastic surgeon for a good evaluation and to talk about your goals.
  
Good luck.-

Guillermo Lorenzo, MD · Answer

Thanks for the questions.Every patient that is going to undergo a surgical procedure must have a body mass index (BMI). below 35. in your case you must lose weight with a nutritionist and accompany him with your exercises. Then try a CP of the page, R.S. to evaluate you and guide you regarding the procedure that you are going to submit to. I hope my guidance is very useful for you. Thank you.

Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

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Answer: Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

Answer: Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

Answer: Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

Answer: Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

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Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

Answers (8)

Answer: Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

Answer: Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

Answer: Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

Answer: Will I get denied for a tummy tuck? Do I need to be a certain size in order to qualify?

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.