How much weight should a 5'8", 200lb woman lose for a tummy tuck?

Question

I am a 5'8, 200lb woman, and I want to know how much weight I should ideally lose for a tummy tuck? Thank you kindly for your help.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about weight recommendations for a tummy tuck. At 5'8" and 200 lbs, you're already well-positioned for a successful result, but any additional weight loss can further enhance your outcome. The more weight you’re able to lose, the smaller your frame will be under the excess skin. This can allow your plastic surgeon to achieve even more optimal skin removal and contouring, giving you a tighter, more defined result.

In general, surgeons recommend getting as close to your goal weight as possible and maintaining stability at that weight for around three months before surgery. This helps ensure long-lasting results, as any muscle tightening or skin removal will address the true contours of your slimmer shape.

Rather than focusing on a specific number, prioritize stable weight and overall health. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon can also provide you with personalized advice on the best approach for your unique body and goals.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Fouad V. Atalla, MD · Answer

The general BMI threshold that many surgeons prefer for tummy tuck candidates is under 30. It’s important to be at a stable goal weight before surgery to ensure the best possible results. This helps with the healing process and ensures that the outcomes are long-lasting. 
The best next step would be to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can offer personalized advice based on your overall health, body composition, and goals. They’ll help you determine if further weight loss is needed to achieve the best results and guide you through the process.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! Weight loss prior to surgery would depend on the amount of abdominal skin laxity you currently have. This is hard to determine without seeing photos. We would love to sit down with you and discuss your options. Schedule an appointment with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jamierose28,
generally speaking, you want to reach your goal weight before you consider a tummy tuck, 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

Eric Swanson, MD · Answer

If you have a large frame, at 5'8" you may be a candidate. Do not feel that you need to be at your ideal body weight before you can have a tummy tuck. However, you should have good habits (diet and exercise) established. The last thing you want to do is gain weight after your tummy tuck. Your weight should be low enough to allow repair of any rectus diastasis you have. You can view photos of patients on my website and others to see examples of women with various weights and frame sizes. A tummy tuck can be very motivating to lose weight after the surgery simply because you like what you are seeing in the mirror.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Your BMI is 30 so you are below what many plastic surgeons consider a safe to minimize complications after surgery. If you’re near to your ideal bodyweight, then there’s no reason that you could not proceed with your abdominal plasty at this time. However, if you typically are 20 or 30 pounds lighter, you may consider losing that weight prior to the abdominoplasty so that your end result is maximized.  Discuss this in detail with your plastic surgeon. Best wishes.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

Ideal BMI for TT must  be below 30. 
I will highly recommend to reach 180 lbs to get a safer procedure, safer anesthesia, better recovery, less pain, less possibility of complications. 
Be encouraged !
Dr. Cardenas

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

At 5'8 and 200 lbs., your BMI is 30.5 which is an acceptable range to do a tummy tuck.  If you are hoping to lose more weight that will be good but not necessary.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

The ideal weight for a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) isn’t a fixed number—it’s more about reaching a stable, healthy weight and maintaining it. Here are key points to consider:

Near Your Goal Weight: Surgeons typically recommend being at or near your goal weight before surgery. Large fluctuations afterward can affect results.

Stable Weight: Ideally, you should have maintained your weight for several months. This helps ensure long-lasting results and reduces the risk of complications.

Body Mass Index (BMI): Many surgeons prefer patients to have a BMI under 30, though this can vary depending on overall health and other factors.

Personal Goals & Health: A tummy tuck removes excess skin and tightens muscles—it’s not a weight-loss surgery. Focus on fat loss through diet and exercise first if needed.

Consultation is Key: During your consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your body, discuss realistic expectations, and determine if you’re ready for surgery or if additional weight loss is recommended.

In short, there isn’t a set “pounds to lose,” but being close to a healthy, stable weight is ideal for the best tummy tuck results.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thank you for your question.
For the best possible result, you will want to be at your ideal weight. Your BMI should be between a 29 and 30 for surgery.
Schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options. Best wishes!

How much weight should a 5'8", 200lb woman lose for a tummy tuck?

Answers (15)

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