Can I have cosmetic surgery if I'm overweight?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions from patients seeking body contouring procedures. Body weight and how it relates to your body mass index is very important in prescreening patients for their eligibility for surgical intervention. It is even more important in patients who have had massive weight loss. Being at a healthy and stable weight prior to surgery typically means that the patient is more likely to do well in recovery, healing time, and outcome.

One of the findings in massive weight loss patients is how BMI relates to the rate of complications. Those with a higher BMI are more likely to experience infection during recovery; in fact, being above a BMI of 35-36 makes you nearly 75 percent more susceptible to infection following surgery. When operating on a patient with lower BMI’s, 32-33 or lower, the infection rate is typically 5 percent or less. Calculating the BMI is an easy study that can be performed to help minimize the rate of complication.

We always recommend trying to achieve and maintain your goal weight prior to having surgery. Cosmetic surgery is not a remedy for obesity nor is it a substitute for diet and exercise but can be a wonderful addition as your weight loss journey reaches a stable point.

At that point there are procedures that can remove excess skin, stubborn pockets of fat, and help to shape and contour your body to help you reach your “best” self.

To get more information about these procedures and how your BMI may affect them, call Owsley Plastic Surgery to schedule your complimentary consultation! (208) 664-0165

After graduating from Wallace High School, Dr. Owsley attended St. Louis Medical School. He went on to his residencies at University of Texas for a six year general surgery program and then a three year plastic surgery program where he was named Chief Resident. In 1995 Dr. Owsley returned to Idaho to begin the practice of plastic surgery. He was the first surgeon to bring endoscopic breast augmentation to Kootenai County. Dr. Owsley’s experience helps him personalize your needs in cosmetic surgery.