Study: Tummy Tuck Improves Quality of Life for Obese Patients

A look at the tummy tuck study

The study was recently published in the October issue of “Plasticand Reconstructive Surgery,” this is a medical journal of the American Societyof Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). The researchers evaluated data from 46 overweightor obese patients over a 12-year time period. The average age of the patientswas 49. Most of them were women, with five males participating in the study. Onaverage, the patients had a body mass index (BMI) of 32. All had a BMI of atleast 25, which is the threshold for being overweight. A BMI of 30 or higher isconsidered obese.

Of these patients, 80% underwent a typical tummy tucksurgery. The remaining pool of patients underwent a panniculectomy. Thissurgery involves the removal of excess skin from the lower part of the abdomen.It differs from a tummy tuck in that it does not involve the tightening of theabdominal muscles.

The results of the study

The researchers discovered that nearly half of the patientsexperienced some sort of complication. Most of these were minor complications,such as infections that were treated with antibiotics. Nine percent sufferedfrom major complications, including poor wound healing and fluid accumulation.These complications required an additional surgery.

About 15 months after their surgeries, the researchersquestioned the patients about their outcomes. Thirty-six patients responded. Ofthose, 94% expressed satisfaction with the procedure and their outcomes, and97% stated the surgery had boosted their quality of life. In another promisingsign, almost half of these patients had lost additional weight after theprocedure.

It should be noted that being overweight or obese isautomatically considered a risk factor for being at an increased risk ofcomplications from any type of surgery. However, according to the results ofthis study, taking the risk may be worth it for some patients. Patients areusually advised to lose weight prior to the surgery. Then, after having thesurgery to remove excess skin and fat, it appears that this boost inself-confidence encourages the further loss of excess weight.

Thinking of having a tummy tuck procedure?

Getting a tummy tuck in NYC is a big decision. It’s important to choose a plastic surgeon who is board-certified, and who has years of experience performing tummy tucks. If you’re in the New York City area or you’re able to travel here for treatment, you can consult with Dr. Thomas Loeb in Manhattan. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon who prioritizes the health and safety of his patients. For out of town patients, videoconferencing is available for the initial consultation to determine whether you could be a good candidate for a tummy tuck.

Call our Fifth Avenue office today at 212.327.3700.