Yes — you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck.Whether you need muscle repair depends on abdominal wall laxity, not weight loss alone — and the fact that you’ve never been pregnant makes muscle repair less likely, but not impossible.How surgeons decide: muscle repair vs no repairYou may NOT need muscle repair if:Your abdomen is flat when lying downYou don’t have a midline bulge when tightening your coreYou have good core strengthThe issue is mainly loose skin and mild fatNo visible “pooch” that worsens with strainThis would be a skin-only tummy tuck (sometimes called a “standard” or “non–muscle repair” TT).You MAY need muscle repair if:You see a central bulge or dome when sitting upYour abdomen protrudes despite low body fatThere’s a palpable gap or softness between the rectus musclesYou have core weakness or back discomfortThis is a full tummy tuck with rectus plication.Important: Weight loss alone can still cause muscle laxity, even without pregnancy — so an exam matters.How to tell before surgery (at home clues)These aren’t definitive, but helpful:Lie flat → does your abdomen flatten nicely?Do a mini crunch → does a ridge or bulge appear down the center?Engage your core → does the lower abdomen still protrude?If yes to the bulge → muscle repair is more likely.What imaging/exam confirmsA physical exam by a board-certified plastic surgeon is usually enoughUltrasound or CT is rarely needed unless there’s hernia suspicionWhy your candidacy is strong✔ 55-lb stable weight loss✔ Age 35 (excellent healing potential)✔ No pregnancies✔ Localized skin laxity✔ Cost and distance not limiting factorsThis is an ideal timing window.What results to expectFlatter, tighter abdomenRemoval of excess skinImproved waist definitionMuscle repair (if needed) adds strength and contour, not just flatnessRecovery:No repair: usually easier, fasterWith repair: more core soreness, but very durable results
