For major weight loss, the overwhelming challenge is dieting successfully to lose fat, become lean, and drop the extra burden of kilograms/pounds. In an ideal world, after mastering that problem, a person should step confidently into swimwear. However, skin stretched by a large three-dimensional burden of fat and body mass may not contract, tighten, and shrink when the weight is lost.  Inelastic skin will instead sag, droop, and hang gravitationally, presenting an additional burden to overcome toward improved confidence and quality of life.  While loose skin is not typically a problem with mild weight loss (10 or 20 pounds), people who lose 50 to 100 pounds or more may find that their skin doesn’t shrink back down once the fat is lost. This may be particularly disappointing after all the hard work and effort that goes into losing extra weight. Learn more about the 10 x weight loss program

What factors cause loose skin after weight loss?

Loose skin doesn’t plague everyone after weight loss. Generally, the more weight lost, the greater chance that sagging skin will remain.  Of course, there is individual variability so that some who lose 150 pounds or more find that their skin matches their smaller body after shedding excess fat.  Others lose 50 pounds and bear a burden of loose, mobile, draping skin folds that represent disproportionate excess.  Several factors contribute to loose skin after weight loss: 

• Age – Collagen and elastin content diminish with age, so skin is more prone to sagging
• Genetics – Some people inherit skin that’s thinner and/or less elastic, so more likely to hang 
• Smoking – Smoking damages collagen and elastin, so smokers’ skin may drop after weight loss
• Skeletal structure – Strong prominent bony frame supports loose skin better than a smaller frame

Usually, a combination of these and other elements determines the final skin situation after significant weight loss. Extra skin may be an aesthetic issue and also cause functional problems.  Inability to wear clothes one likes, deep creases that sweat, macerate, and are difficult to clean, and impaired mobility during exercise or competition may be problematic and annoying.  Surgical removal of excess skin after weight loss is a commonly implemented solution.   

How to tighten loose skin after weight loss

An internet search for cosmetic procedures for tightening loose skin, you’ll find laser skin tightening, cryotherapy, ultrasound, plasma, radiofrequency, and other treatments promoted by dermatologists or medical spas. These treatments may work for minor skin laxity on the face, neck, décolletage, or other areas, but they will not successfully reduce the large amounts of excess skin that remain after weight loss. If your dermatologist believes your skin will respond favorably to these energy treatments, then you may want to give them a try. In most cases, however, surgical removal of the excess skin is the best way to improve your body contours so you can feel good in whatever you wear.  At Feel Beautiful Plastic Surgery in San Diego, Arm Lift, Thigh Lift, Tummy Tuck, and/or Body Lift provides the best possible skin tightening and body sculpting results for patients who have lost weight. 

What is Dr. Laverson’s Body Lift / Skin Tightening? 

Dr. Laverson’s Body Lift is a special combination of dermolipectomy (skin tightening and body sculpting) procedures designed to remove excess skin and refine the body contours for a more attractive appearance. Although the word dermolipectomy is most often associated with the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area during a tummy tuck, it can refer to the same type of procedure done anywhere on the body. 

No two bodies are exactly the same, so not everyone experiences loose skin in the same areas. As with all other cosmetic procedures, Dr. Laverson customizes each Body Lift according to the needs of the individual. A customized Body Lift with Dr. Laverson may involve any combination of the following dermolipectomy procedures:

• Buttock lift
• Thigh lift
• Tummy tuck
• Pubic region lift
• Breast lift
• Arm lift
• Facelift

Additional procedures can be done to enhance your Body Lift. These may include breast implants or fat transfer for a curvier body contour, dermal fillers for a more youthful appearance, or the tightening of connective tissues for a trim and toned abdominal area. Not only does Dr. Laverson have a keen eye for aesthetic beauty, but he also has the skill and experience needed to sculpt your sexiest you.  

Ready to get rid of loose skin so you can shed those layers and show off your curves? 

If you’ve shed pounds and are now ready to shed the excess skin that’s holding back your sexy confidence, Dr. Laverson can help. His surgical precision and commitment to excellence, as well as his dedication to patient comfort and satisfaction, have earned him a reputation as one of San Diego’s best plastic surgeons. For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Laverson, call Feel Beautiful at 858-295-4001 today. 

Tighten Loose Skin After Weight Loss in San Diego at Feel Beautiful

You’ve accomplished the hard part: Losing extra pounds. You deserve to feel good in the skin you’re in! During your consultation at Feel Beautiful Aesthetic Wellness and Plastic Surgery, Dr. Laverson will examine your areas of concern, consider your aesthetic goals, and propose the best body contouring solutions that work for you.