Smokers should avoid a tummy tuck, as nicotine and smoke decrease blood flow and make it more difficult to heal. Smoking can also promote infection, add to skin loss, and increase scarring after a tummy tuck. If you plan to have a tummy tuck, you should quit smoking several months before the procedure. Those who plan to lose significant amounts of weight are not good candidates for a tummy tuck, and your surgery should wait until you are within 25 pounds of your preferred weight. If you plan to get pregnant again, a tummy tuck should wait until after you have your last child, as pregnancy and childbirth can completely reverse the surgery.