Skin Removal Questions

[Looking Ahead 239]

When I'm done, I will have lost over 150lbs- give or take a little. I want to have my thighs, hips/saggy belly, and arms tightened. How long after I lose weight can I have this done and can I do it all at one time? I hope by getting my hips and where my belly sags tightened, it will pull my butt back up. I literally have NO butt anymore. Today I am down 104 lbs ....unbelievable. I still feel like I'm 338 in my mind. But the scales show 234 no matter how times I step off and get back on them.

[Livinglifeout 217]

What a fantastic accomplishment, you've really done great. My doc recommend two years out before plastics.

[It's all new 453]

I hear from many people that you should wait a year or longer after you have finished losing so that your skin can bounce back to whatever extent it is going to. In essence, right after you finish losing your skin will be saggier than a year later.

I am looking into having my thighs, stomach, and breasts done and I don't think I will wait a year. As advisable as others find it, I know that at that time I won't be able to have the procedures due to my life circumstances. Also, my surgeon doesn't require the one year wait - I have heard that many do.

I have read of people combining surgeries. I'm not sure what they would say about the specific procedures you want - I heard about someone who had thighs, breasts, and stomach at the same time. So it seems possible.

Good luck!

[PreciousCargo 55]

My doctor says it takes two yrs for your skin to fully shrink.

[Looking Ahead 239]

I don't want t wait a year of ugly skin after going through so much to lose the weight. Why wait for the skin to shrink if you are going to remove it anyway?

[It's all new 453]

I don't want t wait a year of ugly skin after going through so much to lose the weight. Why wait for the skin to shrink if you are going to remove it anyway?

I'm not exactly sure - I do recommend asking in the sub forum specifically dedicated to plastic and reconstructive surgery if you don't get response in the post-op section that this thread is currently in.

[Webchickadee 716]

One reason I would think it's important to wait is that if you have excess skin removed and the remaining skin continues to recover (and shrink), you could end up with some bad problems!

As difficult as it is to wait, I would do LOTS of research and get multiple opinions on what the proper timeframe is, as well as who the right plastic surgeon is for you. All our circumstances are different, our bodies unique and budgets will also vary.

You probably spent a considerable time at your higher weight (where you were unhappy with your body). Now that you've lost the weight, get used to that new size, and be patient to "complete the job" with the cosmetic refinement. You are making life-long changes to yourself....this is NOT something you should rush into! I have found in many areas of my life that when I made quick decisions, I often regretted the speed I took (even if I didn't necessarily regret the decision), and wished I had taken more time to consider options, consequences etc.