Options for Losing Weight before Your Plastic Surgery

By Dr Jake Lim – Plastic Surgeon | Updated: April 14, 2024

How and Why to Lose Weight before Plastic Surgery

If you’re considering going under the knife, there’s something crucial you might not have thought about: your weight. Reaching a stable weight before your plastic surgery is important to ensure an optimal outcome from your procedure. Undergoing plastic surgery when your weight is fluctuating can lead to a few complications. Not only can it affect the aesthetic results, but it can also increase the risk of post-surgery complications. In this blog, we will discuss options to lose weight before your plastic surgery and reasons to be at your goal weight before the procedure.

Highly qualified and experienced specialist plastic surgeon Dr Jake Lim performs body contouring procedures after weight loss, as well as face and breasts aesthetic surgery.

Dr Lim’s 2024 Excess Skin Guide

Why It’s Important to Lose Weight before Plastic Surgery

When it comes to plastic surgery, preparation is key. And one of the most significant steps in that prep is ensuring you’re at a stable weight. Here are some reasons why:

Improved Surgical Outcomes

Enhanced Aesthetic Results: When your weight is stable, it allows the plastic surgeon to accurately assess and modify the areas you want to be addressed. This can lead to more predictable and pleasing results
Reduced Risk of Complications: Carrying excess weight can increase the risk of surgical complications like infections, poor wound healing, and anaesthetic risks. By shedding those extra kilos, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother surgical experience

Faster Recovery

Quicker Healing: A body that’s at a healthy weight often recovers faster post-surgery. This means less downtime and getting back to your everyday life sooner
Less Strain on the Surgical Site: Weight fluctuations after surgery can put strain on the healing tissues, potentially affecting the final result and prolonging the recovery process

Long-lasting Results

Maintaining Results: Once you’ve invested time and money into a surgical procedure, you’d want the results to last. Being at a stable weight ensures that the changes made during the surgery remain consistent over time
Prolonged Effects: Weight stability can help in prolonging the effects of the surgery, ensuring you enjoy the benefits for years to come

How to Lose Weight before Plastic Surgery

There are different things you can try if you want to lose weight before your plastic surgery procedures.

Natural Weight Loss Methods

Losing weight doesn’t always mean you have to jump straight into extreme diets or rigorous exercise regimes. Sometimes, it’s the simple, natural methods that can make a world of difference. If you’re looking to shed a few kilos before your plastic surgery, here are some tried and true Aussie methods:

· Balanced Diet

We’ve all heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” And it’s true! A balanced diet filled with fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains can do wonders for your waistline. When it comes to fruit to include, think fresh veggies, fruits, lean meats like kangaroo and fish, legumes, and whole grains. It might be tempting to reach for that meat pie or chocolate biscuit, but try to limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol.

· Regular Exercise

Whether it’s a surf at Bondi, a bushwalk in the Blue Mountains, or a simple jog around the neighbourhood, find an activity you love and stick to it.

Cardio can help burn those calories, while strength training ensures you’re building lean muscle. Together, they’re a match made in weight loss heaven.

· Adequate Sleep

Ever noticed how you crave junk food after a poor night’s sleep? There’s a reason for that. Sleep plays a crucial role in regulating hunger hormones. Keep a regular sleep schedule, create a calming bedtime routine, and maybe invest in some good block out curtains to keep that early morning Aussie sun at bay.

Weight loss is a journey, not a destination. It’s all about finding what works best for you and sticking to it. And if you ever feel stuck, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a nutritionist or personal trainer.

Medical Weight Loss Options

Sometimes, despite the best efforts with diet and exercise, some people might need a bit of a helping hand. That’s where medical weight loss options come into play. These methods, often supervised by healthcare professionals, can provide that extra push towards your weight loss goals:

· Prescription Medications

In Australia, there are a few medications that doctors might prescribe to help with weight loss, such as Orlistat (Xenical) or Phentermine (Duromine). These drugs work in different ways, either by reducing fat absorption or suppressing appetite.

Like all medications, weight loss drugs can come with side effects. It’s essential to chat with your GP about the potential risks and benefits.

· Medical Procedures

Gastric balloons are a temporary method where a balloon is placed in the stomach, making you feel fuller faster. It’s a step before considering more invasive surgeries like gastric bypass.

When considering medical weight loss options, it’s crucial to remember that these aren’t magic solutions. They work best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. And always, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medical weight loss treatment.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Weight Loss

Beyond the kitchen and the gym, there are other aspects of our daily lives that can influence our weight. Making a few tweaks in our lifestyle can not only help shed those extra kilos but also improve our overall well-being:

· Stress Management

You should know that there is a connection between stress and weight gain. Ever found yourself reaching for a Tim Tam after a stressful day? Chronic stress can lead to overeating and cravings for unhealthy foods, thanks to the hormone cortisol.

Whether it’s taking a walk along the beach or practicing yoga, find what helps you relax and make it a regular part of your routine.

· Staying Hydrated

Drinking water can boost metabolism and even help you feel full, reducing the amount you eat. Plus, in the Aussie heat, staying hydrated is a must! Aim for about 8 glasses or 2 litres a day. And if you’ve had a big session at the gym or a day out in the sun, you might need even more.

· Limiting Alcohol and Caffeine

While a cold beer or a glass of wine might be tempting, alcohol is packed with empty calories. And while we all love our morning cuppa, too much caffeine can mess with our sleep and increase stress. Try to limit alcohol to social occasions and consider switching to decaf every once in a while.

Setting Realistic Goals for Weight Loss

When embarking on a weight loss journey, especially in preparation for something as significant as plastic surgery, it’s essential to set goals. But not just any goals—realistic and achievable ones. Here’s why and how:

Importance of Setting Achievable Targets: Setting unattainable goals can lead to disappointment and burnout. By keeping things realistic, you’re more likely to stick to your plan and see it through. Every time you hit a goal, no matter how small, it gives you a confidence boost. This positive reinforcement can keep you motivated throughout your journey
Monitoring Progress without Obsessing over Numbers: Weight isn’t the only (or best) indicator of health. Consider other factors like how your clothes fit, your energy levels, and how you feel overall. While it’s essential to track your progress, avoid weighing yourself daily. Our weight can fluctuate for various reasons, so a weekly or fortnightly check-in is more indicative of genuine progress
Celebrating Small Victories along the Way: Hit a milestone? Celebrate! Whether it’s a new outfit, a day out, or just a pat on the back, acknowledging your achievements can keep you motivated. Every step, no matter how small, is progress. If you have an off day or week, don’t beat yourself up. Remember the bigger picture and keep pushing forward

Consulting with Your Plastic Surgeon

Before making any significant changes, especially in preparation for plastic surgery, it’s paramount to have a chat with the expert: your surgeon. Here some aspects you should consider:

Importance of Open Communication: Everybody is unique. Your plastic surgeon can provide tailored advice based on your individual health, body type, and surgical plans. A candid conversation can help set realistic expectations for both the surgery and the weight loss journey leading up to it
Getting Personalised Recommendations: While general advice is beneficial, your plastic surgeon might have specific recommendations or even referrals to nutritionists or trainers who have experience with pre-surgery patients. It’s crucial to discuss any medications you’re on, past surgeries, or other health concerns that might affect both your weight loss journey and the surgery itself
Addressing Concerns and Questions: Whether you’re curious about post-surgery care, potential risks, or even the best time to schedule the procedure, your plastic surgeon is there to help. Having all your questions answered and concerns addressed can provide peace of mind, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead

FAQs about Options for Losing Weight before Plastic Surgery

Can you have plastic surgery if you are overweight?

Yes, it’s possible to have plastic surgery if you’re overweight. However, being significantly overweight can increase the risk of complications during and after the procedure. Surgeons often recommend patients to be within a certain range of their ideal weight before undergoing surgery to ensure the best outcomes and minimise potential risks. It’s essential to have an open discussion with your plastic surgeon about your weight and any associated risks to determine the best course of action.

What is the ideal weight for plastic surgery?

The ideal weight for plastic surgery isn’t a specific number on the scale but rather a stable weight that you can maintain. Dr Lim typically recommend patients to be within 10-15% of their ideal body weight. This ensures that the results of the surgery are long-lasting and reduces the risk of complications. It’s also crucial that this weight has been stable for several months, as significant fluctuations can affect surgical outcomes.

Does weight loss affect plastic surgery results?

Significant weight loss after plastic surgery can affect the results. For procedures like tummy tuck – abdominoplasty or liposuction, losing a substantial amount of weight post-surgery can lead to excess skin or uneven contours. Conversely, gaining weight can stretch the skin and alter the aesthetic results. It’s recommended to reach a stable weight before surgery and maintain it afterwards to ensure the best and most lasting results.

What is the fastest way to lose weight before surgery?

The fastest way to lose weight before surgery involves a combination of a balanced diet, regular exercise, and potentially medically supervised weight loss programs. Cutting out processed foods, sugars, and excessive carbs while increasing protein and fibre intake can help. Pairing this with cardiovascular exercises and strength training can accelerate weight loss. Make sure to approach rapid weight loss safely and under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure it’s done healthily and sustainably.

How to lose weight in 2 weeks?

Losing weight in 2 weeks requires a focused and disciplined approach. Start by reducing your calorie intake, focusing on whole foods like lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. Eliminate processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive salt. Increase your water intake to help flush out toxins and reduce water retention. Incorporate daily exercise, combining both cardio workouts like brisk walking or jogging with strength training exercises. While it’s possible to see noticeable results in 2 weeks, it’s essential to ensure that any weight loss methods are safe and sustainable.

Medical References about Weight and Plastic Surgery

About Dr Jake Lim

Highly qualified and experienced specialist plastic surgeon Dr Jake Lim focuses on facial plastic, cosmetic breast and body contouring after significant weight loss

Dr Lim creates the best possible plastic surgery results for his Australia-wide and international patients.

Dr Lim is passionate about making sure each and every patient has access to the right information about available treatments and procedures and is able to make well-informed decisions.

At My Klinik, patient safety, education and achieving optimal results are our top priorities.

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