Posted by Laurence Weider on December 4, 2019
Dr. Weider, a native of Southern California, is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who has maintained a private practice in Dallas, TX since 1999. After attending Stanford University, he obtained his medical degree (M.D.) from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He then completed a one year surgical internship in Los Angeles at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, followed by a four year general surgery residency in Dallas at Methodist Medical Center, and a two year plastic surgery fellowship in Cleveland at Case Western Reserve University.
Patients considering abdominal liposuction or a tummy tuck often have questions about the factors that influence their surgical outcomes. One critical consideration is the patient’s body mass index (BMI). In many cases, it is recommended that patients have a BMI of 30 or lower before undergoing abdominal contouring surgery to minimize risks and achieve optimal results. While exceptions exist, adhering to this guideline is an important step in ensuring a safe and successful procedure.
Why is BMI Important for Abdominal Contouring?
Undergoing abdominal contouring surgery with a high BMI can increase the risk of complications and limit the improvements that can be achieved. BMI, which can be easily calculated online using one’s height and weight, serves as an indicator of overall body fat. When BMI is above 30, it often reflects higher levels of internal fat that may interfere with the effectiveness of liposuction or a tummy tuck.
Understanding Fat Storage in the Body
To fully appreciate why BMI is crucial for abdominal surgery, it helps to understand where fat is stored in the body. Fat can be categorized into two main types:
1. Subcutaneous Fat
Subcutaneous fat is the external fat that resides beneath the skin. It is the fat that can be pinched, such as in the “love handles.” This type of fat is treatable through surgical procedures like liposuction or removal during a tummy tuck.
2. Visceral Fat
Visceral fat is the internal fat that accumulates around the stomach, intestines, and other internal organs. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat cannot be addressed surgically. The only way to reduce visceral fat is through weight loss achieved by a healthy diet, exercise, or weight loss surgery.
If abdominal contouring surgery is performed while internal fat levels are too high, the results are often suboptimal. A high level of visceral fat can limit the aesthetic outcome and increase the likelihood of complications.
BMI as an Indicator of Internal Fat
Although BMI does not measure fat distribution directly, a BMI above 30 often correlates with elevated levels of visceral fat. For this reason, patients are encouraged to lower their BMI before undergoing abdominal liposuction or a tummy tuck. Reducing internal fat through weight loss ensures better surgical results and reduces health risks associated with the procedure.
Prioritizing Safety and Optimal Outcomes
Recommending weight loss before abdominal contouring surgery is a measure taken with the patient’s best interests in mind. Achieving a healthier BMI before surgery allows for better aesthetic outcomes, reduces the risk of complications, and supports the overall safety of the procedure.
Conclusion
For individuals considering abdominal contouring surgery, maintaining a BMI of 30 or less is a crucial step in achieving successful results. Understanding the difference between subcutaneous and visceral fat highlights why weight management is essential before surgery. Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon ensures personalized guidance and a safe, effective treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs.
At Weider Plastic Surgery, we want all of our patients to achieve the best possible results with the lowest risk of complications. If we recommend losing weight prior to cosmetic surgery, we have your best interests at heart.
To schedule an initial consultation give our Dallas, TX office a call at (972) 566-8444.
