Should You Lose Weight Before a Toronto Tummy Tuck Surgery?

People don’t realize that it is actually not a weight loss procedure


Many clients exploring the idea of a tummy tuck in Toronto are quite surprised to find out that it is usually recommended to achieve your weight loss goals prior to the procedure.

To understand why it is important to be at your goal weight before the surgery, it is a good starting point to understand how the procedure works. In a tummy tuck, excess skin is removed and abdominal muscles are stitched together to restore them to their original position. Once the muscles are stitched together and the excess skin and fat is trimmed away, a smoother abdominal contour is revealed.

When patients are not at their ideal weight before undergoing the procedure, there will usually be a layer of fat wrapped around the intestine, inside the abdomen. This type of deep fat that surrounds internal organs is known as visceral fat. When a patient has excess visceral fat, it will cause the stomach to protrude and cannot be addressed by the procedure. For patients who have a bulging tummy, it is important to lose weight before, in order to see the best results. Typically, surgeons prefer that patients only have about an inch to an inch and a half of fat beneath the skin when they go in for the procedure.

Should-You-Lose-Weight-Before-a-Toronto-Tummy-Tuck-Surgery

Recovery Period

When many of our patients considering a tummy tuck in Toronto hear this, they often ask why liposuction cannot be used to address the excess fat. Although liposuction is routinely performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck, it cannot be safely performed on all areas of the abdomen. When there is excess visceral fat in the middle of the abdomen, it cannot be addressed by liposuction due to the risks it poses. Liposuction in the mid section of the abdomen can disrupt bloody supply to the skin, which can cause additional complications. When bloody supply is disrupted, it can pose serious complications with healing and can also lead to long-term issues such as additional scarring and a lengthier recovery period.

Healthy Weight

Now that you have a better idea of why it is important to lose weight prior, you may be wondering how much weight to lose. While there is no set number, you should be at a stable and healthy weight for your body type before your procedure. The more weight you are able to safely lose prior to the surgery, the better the results will be, and a lower risk of complications. By taking the time the achieve and maintain your goal weight before undergoing the procedure, you can get the most out of your investment by both getting the most optimal results, and minimizing your recovery.

Once you are at or around your goal weight, it is a good idea to consult with a plastic surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate. Dr. Golger is one of the top plastic surgeons performing tummy tucks in Toronto. Operating out of his state of the art clinics conveniently located in Toronto and Whitby, he has helped countless patients look and feel their best. To find out if the procedure is right for you, we welcome you to contact one of our clinic locations to set up a private consultation.

Take the Next Step

Dr. Golger

Meet Our Surgeons

Dr. Golger


Doctor's Bio
Dr. Romy

Meet Our Surgeons

Dr. Romy


Doctor's Bio

TUMMY TUCK ADDITIONAL ARTICLES

Learn more about tummy tuck


Book A Consultation

Ready to take the plunge? Book a consultation with us.


Book An Appointment