People are often surprised to hear that a patient’s BMI (body mass index) plays an important role in performing a safe, problem-free surgery with satisfactory results. Many hold the mistaken belief that plastic surgery, particularly body contouring procedures such as liposuction and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), is designed for weight loss. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Liposuction is a tool that helps contour parts of the body that are out of proportion with the rest of a person’s body. Abdominoplasty corrects loose abdominal wall musculature as well as removing excess skin and fat of the abdomen.
Patients should be near their goal weight before surgery
Prior to undergoing surgery, patients are usually asked to be at or near their goal weight, ideally within 10-20lbs of the target. This applies to virtually any kind of surgical procedure, especially when preparing for a body contouring procedure, such as an abdominoplasty, liposuction, or Brazilian butt lift (BBL). Body contouring surgeries often address developments that have resulted from significant weight loss, such as stubborn pockets of fat and sagging skin. Being near the goal weight prior to surgery ensures that the procedure will attain the desired result.
In addition, it is essential that patients maintain a healthy weight following the procedure, as any significant weight fluctuations, be it weight loss or weight gain, can negatively impact the final results.
However, the biggest reason that physicians stress the need for patients to be within BMI limits is that it plays a major role in the potential complications associated with surgery. Taking these factors into account is paramount for both the surgeon and the patient, as minimizing surgical risks ensures a successful procedure.
What does BMI mean?
BMI, or body mass index, is an estimate of the amount of fat a person has on their body. It typically combines the person’s height and weight to give an approximation of their ideal body weight and overall health. The WHO (World Health Organization) considers a healthy BMI to be generally anywhere from 18.5 to 25. Patients that want to know what their BMI is can use a number of free online calculators to find out.
It is important to bear in mind, however, that BMI is simply a rough screening method for determining your weight category. There is a wide range of factors that determine what is healthy and what is not. The BMI can possibly be skewed if the patient is pregnant or if they are super athletic or overly muscular. As muscle weighs a bit more than fat, a person’s BMI does not necessarily shed light on exactly how much fat they have on their body.
What BMI is recommended for patients undergoing surgery?
Most surgery clinics recommend that the patient’s BMI be under 35 before undergoing surgery, but this number is not set in stone, and there are always exceptions to the rule. However, it is recommended that the patient be at or near their goal weight prior to meeting with their prospective physician.
Exceptions to BMI limitations
There is an exception, however, for people that have already lost a substantial amount of weight. Individuals who have lost 100 pounds or more may still be eligible for surgery despite being over a BMI of 35.
That said, it is important to keep in mind that surgeons sometimes provide patients with a goal weight to achieve before scheduling the surgery. This target weight depends on several safety factors as well as the patient’s own goals and desired outcome.
What risks and complications are associated with a high BMI?
Various studies show that high BMIs are quite often linked to multiple health problems including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver problems, and breathing problems, on top of several different types of cancers and other life-threatening conditions. Patients struggling with any of these or other serious health issues may not be good candidates for elective surgery.
Patients with higher BMIs can also encounter post-surgical complications associated with general anesthesia, an increased risk of infection, a slower wound healing response, a seroma (fluid accumulation), as well as an increased likelihood of needing a follow-up surgery. In general, patients with a BMI of 30 or below are ideal candidates for abdominoplasty.
Patients with a body mass index between 30 and 35 can have positive outcomes provided that they have good overall health. Patients in this category that are struggling with issues such as diabetes, hypertension, respiratory issues, etc., may not be candidates for surgery. Also, ideal cosmetic results may not be achievable in this BMI range.
What is the takeaway?
Overall, having a lower BMI before undergoing a Tummy Tuck procedure is necessary for best results. The risks associated with having surgery while at a high BMI far outweigh the rewards. It is the physician’s responsibility to take into account the potential complications involved in any procedure before going forward with the process. It is highly recommended that patients consult with an experienced doctor before making their decision.
