Body Lift, should I lose muscle to reach a BMI of 30?

Question

Hi, I've received answers on a previous question, and a majority of surgeon need to see a BMI of under 30, some don’t but it really limits my choice for a surgeon. I understand that the literature says that there's higher risk for complication for surgery on patient over BMI of 30. But BMI is not considering the body shape, I have large shoulders, heavy bone density, good muscle mass, excess skin. I feel like the weight I will need to achieve to be under a BMI of 30 is unreachable for me if I continue strength training while losing weight. My question is, should I stop strength training to lose muscle mass so I can reach a BMI under 30, I feel it's contrary to my goal of body recomposition, but that surgery is currently more important to me.

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is true that some surgeons will not operate on patients with a high BMI. Body Mass Index varies widely amongst different body types and is not in and of itself an indicator of obesity in every patient I see many weight loss patients with high BMIs who are not overweight and have minimal excess body fat. Also, heavily muscled athletes almost always fall into the obese category of BMI even when they have little to no body fat. In over 27 years of doing surgery on massive weight loss patients, I see many whose BMI is over 30, but when you examine them, they have very little extra body fat other than that which will be removed in surgery. In my opinion, these patients are still safe candidates for surgery despite their high BMI. 
Based on your self-description of your body, I would strongly recommend that you do not do anything to lose muscle mass just to alter your BMI number. Doing so would likely cause tissue healing issues due to low protein levels. 
Find a surgeon who has extensive experience in massive weight loss patients and who evaluates the whole patient, not just one making a decision just based on your BMI.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

No you should not compromise good healthy habits in order to reach a given BMI.  When considering if a person is a candidate for a procedure BMI is considered but is not the only factor.  Begin by selecting a board certified plastic surgeon who meets your criteria.  Discuss your goals and obstacles.  Together you can work toward your goal of a body lift.

Body Lift, should I lose muscle to reach a BMI of 30?

Answers (2)

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