Having confidence in your own skin is priceless, and a plus size tummy tuck is an invaluable tool to help you get there. In this post, we'll answer all of your questions regarding plus size tummy tucks, including the benefits and risks, the recovery process, and more.

Read on for a comprehensive overview of plus size tummy tucks, or use the links below to navigate to the section you're most interested in.

What is a Plus Size Tummy Tuck?

A plus size tummy tuck, sometimes called a high BMI tummy tuck or an overweight tummy tuck, is a procedure where a plastic surgeon removes excess fat and skin from the abdominal area. When extra fat and skin are removed, the abdominal muscles can begin to tighten, and as a result, reveal a slimmer, smaller stomach. The process for a plus size tummy tuck is similar to a traditional abdominoplasty, but more fat is generally removed during a plus size procedure.

Candidates for a Plus Size Tummy Tuck

Like any elective surgery, there are several criteria that must be met in order to be considered a good candidate for a plus size tummy tuck.

You may be a good candidate for an overweight tummy tuck if:

• You have a BMI of 30 or less
• Are within 20-30 pounds of your goal weight
• You are healthy and do not have a medical condition(s) that may increase your risk of complications
• You are devoted to living a healthy lifestyle
• You do not plan to get pregnant

Talk to your doctor about their specific criteria to assess whether you're considered a suitable candidate for the procedure.

Benefits of a Plus Size Tummy Tuck

The benefits of having a high BMI tummy tuck vary from person to person, but may include:

• Improved self esteem
• More confidence in clothing
• Smaller, slimmer tummy
• Easier to maintain an active lifestyle once healed
• Reduction in chaffing and uncomfortable skin folds
• Tighter abdominal muscles for a leaner physique
• Reduction in urinary incontinence
• Ventral hernia correction

Risks of a Plus Size Tummy Tuck

Like any surgical procedure, a plus size tummy tuck has a number of potential risks to be aware of before moving forward. Historically, the surgical risks for plus size individuals are much higher than those with a “normal” or low BMI. Of course, these risks may vary depending on the patient and procedure, but complications with wound healing is the most common complaint. Keep in mind that if you do not achieve the desired results, it may be possible to have an additional procedure performed.

If you are considering an abdominoplasty of any kind, it's important to note that it is not a replacement for weight loss. In fact, many surgeons will recommend that the patient loses weight prior to the procedure.

Plus Size Tummy Tuck FAQs

Before moving forward with a plus size tummy tuck, take a look at the frequently asked questions we've answered below.

Is there a weight limit for a tummy tuck?

While there is no explicit weight limit for tummy tucks, most doctors recommend that their patients be at a stable weight at least 6 months before the procedure. According to PlasticSurgery.org, most surgeons expect their patients to be within 10-15 pounds of their goal weight in the months leading up to their plus size tummy tuck. Other doctors may recommend that their patients maintain a BMI of 30 or less for optimal safety in plus size procedures.

Again, it is important to note that the procedure is not a replacement for weight loss and complications may become more likely the more overweight the patient is.

How do I find the right plastic surgeon to perform my plus size tummy tuck?

Finding the right plastic surgeon can be challenging, especially when you're entrusting someone to help you improve your physical appearance and confidence. Use these tips to make the process more manageable:

• Start by verifying board certification for each candidate.
• Ask for referrals from family and friends who have undergone plastic surgery.
• Find a plastic surgeon with the help of our directory.
• Take a look at reviews, before and after photos, and testimonials to help narrow down your options.
• Ask about safety protocols.
• Schedule a thorough consultation to see if it's a good fit.

How much do plus size tummy tucks cost?

A plus size tummy tuck typically ranges between $11,000 – $18,000, with costs depending on procedural specifics, practice, region, etc.

What is the recovery process for an overweight tummy tuck?

Whether you receive a traditional tummy tuck or a plus size tummy tuck, it's important to consider whether the recovery process suits your lifestyle and expectations. The recovery process should play a big role in your decision-making process.

According to PlasticSurgery.org, recovery from a plus size tummy tuck takes between 2-3 weeks and requires significant downtime. This means taking time off from work, exercise, and other physical activities. During the first few hours and days after surgery, the patient will feel fatigued, swollen, and may experience moderate pain. Pain will begin to subside over time, but continued focus on rest and healing is of the utmost importance. In the first few days after the procedure, surgical drains will be installed to help prevent the buildup of blood or fluids and to ultimately ensure accurate healing. As scarring starts to improve and pain lessens, you may be able to reintroduce some activities, however, strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks.

How long does it take to see complete results?

If you're considering undergoing a plus size tummy tuck, it's important to understand that the results will not be seen right away. In fact, redness, bruising, stiffness, and swelling are frequent in the first few weeks. Over the next four to six weeks, this will gradually settle, and the results will begin to emerge. Residual swelling, on the other hand, can last up to 6 months. In total, healing from a tummy tuck procedure could take up to a year.

Do tummy tucks cause permanent scarring?

All tummy tucks will result in some permanent scarring near the abdomen, however, it will fade over time and is typically placed in an area that can easily be concealed by clothing.

Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent noticeable scarring after your procedure. embrace^® is a patented scar prevention solution that's easy to use and effective. Plastic surgeons prefer embrace^® Active Scar Defense because it is the only product that has been clinically proven to help prevent the emergence of dark, elevated, visible scars. How does it work? The applicator gently holds both sides of your closed incision together, and is specially constructed to apply accurate tension reduction on the skin, as tension is the leading cause of scarring.

Wrapping Up

Plus size tummy tucks can be a great option for those looking to boost their confidence, jumpstart their healthy lifestyle, or achieve their desired physical appearance. Tummy tucks of any kind — plus sized, mini, or traditional — are all surgical procedures that have risks and require ample recovery time.

If you're considering a plus size tummy tuck, make sure to do your research to understand the criteria, surgical process, and recovery requirements beforehand.

For additional information on embrace^® Scar Therapy solutions, including mommy makeover scar healing, surgical scar therapy, silicone scar sheets, and more, refer to our frequently asked questions.