Tummy Tuck after Bariatric Surgery with a BMI over 30-Raleigh, NC*

This 65-year-old woman had bariatric surgery about 15 years ago getting her weight down from over 300 pounds down to about 217. Over the years, her weight did fluctuate, but she was generally comfortable even though her body mass index of 34 was still considered obese. Over the years she really hated her abdomen and was unable to wear certain clothing styles or bathing suits. She finally decided to do so with Dr. Glenn Lyle who specializes in body contouring especially in patients with weight loss. She underwent full abdominoplasty and liposuction. Because of her age and a few underlying health issues, it was done in a hospital setting but as an outpatient. Her abdominoplasty recovery was about 2 weeks of homebound restrictions, but she returned to work within 3 weeks and by one month was getting back to most of her normal activities. Abdominoplasty when the BMI is over 30 does have a somewhat increased risk of complications including fluid collections, delayed wound healing, increased potential for DVT and higher risk of infection. However, studies show over 90% of patients are very satisfied with the outcome. Proper patient selection is key and managing expectations is important. Dr Lyle will often perform higher risk patients in a hospital setting but usually as an outpatient. Many plastic surgeons have a "BMI criteria" and won't accept patients with BMI over 30. Dr Lyle will consider surgery up to BMI of 35. (and occasionally higher in a hospital).