What Would Disqualify You From Getting Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Have you been considering cosmetic help to achieve a flatter, firmer stomach? Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a body contouring procedure that removes loose skin, unwanted fat, and tightens underlying abdominal muscles. Although a tummy tuck for weight loss is not the answer, healthy Miami men and women needing a little help with their waistline area are ideal candidates. Cosmetic surgery can be an exciting option, but are there any reasons you might be turned away from a tummy tuck?

At Jeffrey LaGrasso M.D. in Miami, FL board-certified and reconstructive plastic surgeon Dr. Jefferey LaGrasso is an experienced and knowledgeable surgeon who can help you reach your aesthetic goals. If you are considering a tummy tuck, read on to learn more from Dr. LaGrasso about what factors may delay your journey to move forward with this life-changing surgery.

What is tummy tuck surgery, and how can it help?

It is not uncommon for people to carry a little extra weight in their midsection. Age, pregnancy, and even stress can cause individuals to have a dreaded "pooch," or excess fat or loose skin on their stomachs. Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a body contouring procedure designed to address excess skin and fat, and even stretched out abdominal muscles to achieve a more fit-looking, tighter abdominal area. When a patient's diet and exercise efforts are no longer doing the trick, a tummy tuck can be a life-changing option for the right candidates.

Is there an option of a tummy tuck for weight loss?

A tummy tuck can provide Miami, FL patients a firmer, tighter abdominal area. However, it is not intended to be a weight-loss method. While liposuction may be incorporated to reduce small amounts of unwanted fat, causing patients to lose some weight due to surgery, it is not a weight management solution. Patients committed to a healthy lifestyle before a tummy tuck are ideal candidates for this body contouring procedure. It is generally recommended patients be at or near their goal weight before undergoing tummy tuck surgery, typically within 15 – 20 pounds. A patient's weight alone will not disqualify them from this procedure. Still, it may cause unnecessary tummy tuck risks, increase the likelihood of a revision procedure in the future, and reduce a patient's overall satisfaction with the outcome.

What other factors might delay my tummy tuck?

The decision to consider plastic surgery is very personal. It also involves patients being aware of certain risk factors that might induce unnecessary complications and compromise their results. During a one-on-one consultation in Miami, FL, Dr. LaGrasso will assess a patient's current weight and other important factors, such as:

  • Patient's medical history
  • Use of tobacco products
  • Any previous surgical complications or clotting issues
  • Use of any current anticoagulants, medications, or supplements

Learn more about how to prepare for tummy tuck in Miami, FL

In preparing for a tummy tuck procedure, patients may be asked to stop smoking, adjust their current medications or supplements, get lab work done, and lose additional weight to be more in their ideal range. Being better prepared beforehand will help provide a smoother, quicker recovery. It is also equally important to follow a healthy diet and lifestyle afterward to maintain long-term results. At Jeffrey LaGrasso M.D., we take pride in offering our patients the care they need. If you have additional questions or want to schedule a tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso, contact our office in Miami, FL. We look forward to hearing from you.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.