Am I a Candidate for a Plus Size Tummy Tuck in Jacksonville, Florida?

What is a Plus Size Tummy Tuck?

Patients at Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates Jax are often interested in making their abdomen more contoured. Although patients have lost a significant amount of weight, many still have some excess fat and skin. Some patients may not reach their weight loss goal.  However, these patients might be ideal candidates for a plus size tummy tuck.

 A plus size tummy tuck is an elective surgery to remove excess fat and skin. It involves similar steps to a traditional tummy tuck.  However, we modify it for our larger size patients and often involves additional liposuction to achieve the desired results. During a plus size tummy tuck, the surgeon will make an incision along the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. This incision allows the surgeon to access the underlying muscles and tissues. The excess fat and skin are then carefully removed, creating a smoother and more toned appearance.

One of the main differences in a plus size tummy tuck is the need for additional liposuction. This is because larger patients often have more stubborn pockets of fat that cannot be easily addressed through the traditional tummy tuck procedure alone. By combining liposuction with the tummy tuck, the surgeon can effectively contour the abdomen and achieve the desired results.

The recovery process for a plus size tummy tuck is similar to that of a traditional tummy tuck. Patients will need to take some time off work and avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks. It is important to follow the surgeon's post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. Occasionally, the drain will need to stay a few days longer; but pain is comparable. 

Many patients who undergo a plus size tummy tuck are thrilled with the results. Not only does it improve the appearance of their abdomen, but it also boosts their confidence and self-esteem. They no longer have to worry about excess skin or stubborn fat, allowing them to feel more comfortable and confident in their own bodies.

Your surgeon will be able to assess your individual needs and goals, and determine if you are a suitable candidate. Remember, a plus size tummy tuck is a personal decision, and it is important to have realistic expectations and understand the potential risks and benefits before undergoing surgery.

At Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates Jax, our team of skilled surgeons is dedicated to providing exceptional care and delivering natural-looking results. We understand the unique needs of our plus size patients and strive to help them achieve their desired body contour. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the plus size tummy tuck procedure.

What makes me a good candidate for a plus size tummy tuck?

Our patients must be in good health, and have a safe body mass index (BMI) to operate. The body mass index (BMI) is a calculated by dividing a person's weight (kg) by their height (m) squared. After this number is calculated, one can determine where on the scale they fall. 

Although it would be ideal for all patients to be at their goal weight, we can still perform surgery on patients who are overweight and obese. To be safe, we like all of our patients to have a BMI under 36.

Unfortunately BMI does not take into account body composition. For example, a very muscular person has an elevated BMI.  Even with its limitations, the BMI scale is a good reference.It is important to note that the BMI scale is just one tool in assessing a person's overall health. While it provides a general indication of weight status, it does not consider factors such as muscle mass, bone density, or distribution of fat. Therefore, it is possible for someone with a higher BMI to still be in good health if they have a higher proportion of muscle rather than fat.

In our practice, we understand the limitations of the BMI scale and take a comprehensive approach when evaluating patients for surgery. We consider various factors such as medical history, lifestyle, and individual goals to determine the most appropriate course of action. This ensures that we provide the best possible care for each patient, regardless of their BMI.

Additionally, we emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regardless of whether a patient undergoes surgery or not. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and proper nutrition are crucial for overall well-being. We work closely with our patients to develop personalized plans that promote long-term success and help them achieve their desired weight and health goals.

While the BMI scale can be a helpful reference point, it is essential to remember that it is not the sole determinant of a person's health. Our team is dedicated to providing individualized care and support to help our patients lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Another consideration to take into account, is where the fat is on the patient. If the fat is intra-abdominal, we will often recommend additional weight loss. However, we can easily remove excess fat that is external.

After surgery, we place a binder on the patient. This helps with compression, and many patients find it comforting.  We instruct the patient to measure daily drain output, and when it is time, we remove the drain. We typically remove the drain one to two weeks after surgery.

Patients typically start weaning off of their pain medication three to five days after surgery. One a patient is off of narcotics, he or she can drive and do desk work.  Most patients turn the corner around seven to ten days after surgery. Additionally, most patients take two weeks off from work to be safe. 

Every patient journey is different, so we recommend customizing these answers during a consultation.

If you are interested in learning more about plus size tummy tucks or to find out the cost of a plus size tummy tuck, please fill out an online consultation or schedule a consultation.Tummy Tuck