BMI and Abdominoplasty-Selection Criteria. Raleigh, North Carolina*

Plastic surgeons have criteria to determine the suitability of candidates for elective cosmetic surgery. Abdominoplasty is a very popular procedure but does have associated risks some of which are life-threatening such as DVT, Careful scrutiny of patient's health conditions is necessary to achieve safe, good outcomes without unnecessarily increasing risks of surgery. This 51-year-old woman was overweight with a BMI of 32.5 and had non-insulin-dependent diabetes. However she had no heart issues, and her diabetes was well managed Her Hgb A1c was in the normal range so she was felt to be a reasonable candidate for abdominoplasty and liposuction. Dr. Lyle generally restricts his abdominoplasty candidates to those with BMI of 35 or under provided they are otherwise healthy. This cut off is not arbitrary and is based on studies showing increasing rates of complications with a higher BMI. Patients with BMI over 35 are encouraged to lose weight and those with other associated health problems-are also encouraged to lose weight. She was very happy with her abdominoplasty with liposuction of the flanks.' She enjoyed a more "snatched " appearance. She had no complications. Good outcomes are achieved by careful patient selection, excellent surgical technique and diligent perioperative care. Board certification is an important criteria in a patient's decision to choose their plastic surgeon.