Original and current body mass index (BMI)

• BMI: weight (kg)/[height (m)]².

Obesity classification (Table 32.1)

Weight loss timeline

• How much over how long?

  • Should be within 10 to 15% of goal weight.

• Length of time weight has been stable

  • Weight must be stable over a 6-month period prior to body contouring procedures.

  • Exception is for panniculectomy or breast reduction if hindering exercise and further weight loss.

Method of weight loss, including bariatric procedures

• Should know example procedures and their physiologic consequences/nutritional deficiencies in case you are asked.

• Restrictive: Laparoscopic banding (Lap-Band), vertical banded gastroplasty.

• Malabsorptive: Biliopancreatic diversion ± duodenal switch.

• Combination restrictive–malabsorptive: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Current diet and exercise habits, nutritional supplementation, symptoms of nutritional deficiency (e.g., fatigue, hair loss, poor wound healing, neuropathy).

Current and pre-weight-loss-medical and psychiatric comorbidities.

Risk factors for poor wound healing (e.g., smoking, steroids and immunosuppressive medications).

Comprehensive assessment of body contour, skin and tissue quality, degree of ptosis and/or deflation.

Presence of breast masses.

Presence of abdominal scars, hernias, Lap-Band port.

Signs of nutritional deficiency (e.g., pale mucous membranes, brittle nails and hair).