Back when I was 33 years old, I had a hysterectomy. As a result, I have a nice long scar across my lower abdomen and a big old saggy belly. At my age (72) I doubt that I will ever be able to exercise or lose enough weight to obtain a nice smooth abdomen. I am 5' 9" tall and currently weigh 195. Would I be a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
Hello Sally B, you sound like a good candidate for a tummy tuck, provided you are a good candidate for anesthesia. Your body mass index is acceptable. The excess skin can be removed, muscle tightened and your old scar can probably be used for the tummy tuck. It is a restorative procedure, repositioning the muscle and removing the excess skin. Most women tell me it's the "best thing they have ever done". exercise and a healthy diet will make you a better surgical candidate and minimize the risk of complications; I would surges trying to lose about 15 lb ifvyou can. Best wishes!
Your scar is a fixed point over which your abdomen sags. This cannot be3 corrected with weight loss. However, you are overweight with a BMI of 28.8. You could have the operation at your current weight, but if you subsequently lose wight you will undo some of the benefits of the operation. You will have a better result if you lose weight first , if possible.
Sally,
The first thing you should be concerned about at 72 before surgery is your overall health. Consider a visit to your primary care practioner or cardiologist & request surgical clearance for a general anesthetic. They will commonly do some testing (EKG, etc.) & provide you with a report. At this point then consider take this data to an ASPS member in your area that specializes in the surgery you desire for an evaluation. Have we done patients your age? Sure, but often an overnight observation is required in an extended care facility to make sure things go well after their surgery. Best,
Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS
Thank you for sharing your excellent question. Assuming you are otherwise a good candidate for surgery there is no reason that you could not have a tummy tuck at 72 years of age. See a series of ASPS board certified plastic surgeons in consultation to discuss your options.