Why does your BMI matter for cosmetic surgery?

Why does MYA have a BMI restriction? 

Before attending any consultations with our surgeons at MYA, we ask for your height and weight (so we can calculate your BMI) along with your medical summary. It is important that patients meet MYA’s surgical criteria and are fit and healthy for surgery, this includes being within a certain BMI range.  

To proceed with a cosmetic surgery procedure and be administered a general anaesthetic, our clinical team need to review your medical history. If your BMI is too high or low, you may not be able to move forward with your procedure at this point as being under or overweight plays a role in increasing the risks of complications during surgery and recovery. 

Our MYA experts will be able to talk you through the BMI restrictions for the procedure you are considering. They will also be on hand to answer any questions you may have and discuss what to do if your BMI is under or over our clinical range.  

How do you calculate your BMI? 

Your BMI is measured by an accurate reading of your height and weight. To calculate your BMI, divide your weight in kg by your height in metres squared. For example, a BMI of 25 means 25kg/m2. 

Please ensure that when you’re asked for your measurements, that you try be as accurate as possible. Your health and wellbeing are of the upmost importance to MYA so we want to make sure we get this right. Please note that a nurse will always take your height at weight at your vitals appointment.  

BMI overview for adults: 

• Under 18.5 – underweight  

• Between 18.5 and 24.9 – healthy weight 

• Between 25 and 29.9 – overweight 

• Between 30 and 39.9 – obese 

• BMI of 40 or more – clinically obese 

If you have an unhealthy BMI you are at a higher risk of: 

• Infection 

• Delayed wound healing 

• Higher risk of heart an attack 

• Irregular heart rhythms 

• Taking longer to recover from illness 

• Heightened risk of complications under general anaesthetic  

Why does MYA need to know about my weight? 

Another factor to consider when researching cosmetic surgery, is whether you are currently at your ideal weight. If you are planning on losing or gaining weight before your procedure, it is important to mention this to your surgeon. Fluctuations through weight loss and weight gain can affect the final result of some procedures such as a breast enlargement, or abdominoplasty.