Study finds no increase in tummy tuck complications in obese patients

A recent study has found that obese patients aren’t at an increased risk of developing complications when undergoing a tummy tuck procedure. The results of the study published in the April edition of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal, show those who were obese had almost the same rate of complications as those who were a healthy weight.

So, does this mean a tummy tuck is an ideal procedure for those who are considered obese? Here, we’ll look at what the study found and what patients should consider before undergoing the procedure.

Understanding the tummy tuck study

This recent research followed 82 patients over seven years, who underwent a tummy tuck procedure. Out of these patients, 21 were considered to be obese, while the other 62 patients were considered to be of average weight.

A follow-up was provided close to a year after the surgery when complication rates between the two groups were compared. It was discovered the only increased risk factor obese patients had, was high blood pressure. The complication rate for everything else was discovered to be almost the same as the non-obese group.

These results have proven surprising within the industry. It has often been believed that obesity increases the risks of cosmetic surgery. So, these new results do provide hope to obese patients. But does that mean they should undergo a tummy tuck procedure?

Is it a good idea to undergo a tummy tuck when you’re obese?

While there doesn’t appear to be an increased risk of complications due to obesity, there are still some factors to consider before going under the knife.

The main thing to think about is what would happen if you were to gain or lose weight after having the tummy tuck. If you were to lose a lot of weight, for example, you could end up with more excess skin. If you were to gain weight, on the other hand, you could experience a loss in muscle tone and firmness, as well as excess skin.

So, while there seems there may be no real medical issue with having a tummy tuck when you’re obese, the results could be compromised. This is definitely something patients need to be wary about as a tummy tuck is an invasive procedure with a fairly lengthy recovery time. So, the last thing you want is to undergo the procedure, then require an additional procedure later on if your weight does fluctuate.