It it true that my BMI is meant to be 32 or below to get a mini tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck?

Question

I got told this by a oversea clinic call wellness Travels so is that true?

Daniel Butz, MD · Answer

There is not true cut off or guide to if you're a candidate for a mini vs. full abdominoplasty based on BMI. Everyone is different and it depends on the amount redundant skin and fat. In general, a miniabdominoplasty is best for thin patients with localized fullness below the belly button and minimal diastasis. Normally the longer scar is acceptable to most patients to achieve the best result and improvement in their abdominal contour. Surgical risk do go up as your BMI increases. Maybe they're references that data. See a board certified plastic surgeon in your area so you be assured realistic expectations and prompt post surgical care.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear farume11,
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

Aftab Siddiqui, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

The answer to this question may vary depending on which doctor you consult. However, in general, most doctors will agree that your BMI should be 32 or below to be a candidate for a mini tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck. This is because the surgery requires the removal of excess skin and fat, and patients with a BMI above 32 may have too much skin and fat to be candidates for the surgery. If you are interested in getting a tummy tuck, consult with a doctor to see if you are a good candidate for the surgery.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

The BMI is just a guide, some surgeons go by it more than others. Some say it must be 30 or lower. However, it should be done on an individual basis looking at all factors of the patient. It is true that in order to get the best result you want to be as close to your goal weight that you can and a weight that you can maintain which will also mean less possible complications in surgery. Be sure to see a board certified plastic surgeon who will be able to evaluate your particular situation. Good luck.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Most plastic surgeons prefer that the BMI be at 30 or below and a stable weight maintained for several months prior to the surgery to lower the risks of complications during and after surgery and to insure maximum results.   Safety should always be the first priority when undergoing any type of surgical procedure. Losing weight can reduce the risk for complications with surgery.  BMI is but one measure.  Distribution of fat and overall health as well as goals all factor into this decision. Patients with a higher BMI have been found to have a significantly increased risk for developing postoperative seromas.  I am not so stringent on the BMIs of prospective patients.  It would be nice for everyone to be at goal weight, but that is not realistic.   If the patient has enough risk factors to be moderate to high risk for surgery, I will not operate on these patients.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Questions about body mass index?  The body mass index is a very important member when it comes to plastic surgery operations. Large studies of patients have documented that when the body mass index is above 30 the risk of both infections and wound complications doubles. Either medical complications can occur as well including the need for intravenous antibiotics for admission to the hospital if a serious infection develops. That is why most plastic surgeons including the American Society of plastic surgeons recommends that patients be below a body mass index of 30 for elective cosmetic Surgery. I hope this helps to answer your question and I hope you have a wonderful day, Dr. Aldo

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

Your BMI does not determine whether a mini or full tummy tuck is needed, if that was your question, but it does predict the chances of developing complications from surgery. This is especially important to consider if you are traveling out of the country for surgery.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

BMI is not the only factor when considering if someone is a candidate for a tummy tuck, but it is one of them.  A BMI of 30 or under is recommended in order to keep risks such as infection and poor wound healing from increasing.  Having a BMI below 30 is also recommended to allow your surgeon to optimize your results.

Felix Omar Márquez, MD · Answer

Hi, thanks for your question. It's true. More than 30 BMI means obesity. It's not a good idea to go for Tummy Tuck if you have obesity. The procedure will not help you, and it would be a waste of time and money. I recommend going to a weight-loss treatment. After that, you can have excellent results to eliminate saggy skin with Tummy Tuck. Good luck!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

For cosmetic surgery, it is best to be closer to your ideal weight. However, that is not always a reality for many. When your BMI is over 32, you will have more risks with infections and healing, and some surgeons will choose not to do surgery.  With a higher BMI, I recommend finding a surgeon in your area so you can have all the follow up care you need.  Traveling for surgery elsewhere is not a good idea for you.

It it true that my BMI is meant to be 32 or below to get a mini tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck?

Answers (19)

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