I am 2 1/2 years post op. I lost 100 lbs my first year and have maintained it since. Last summer I didn't mind the excess skin too terribly much as I was simply thrilled with my new size (down from 22/24 to a solid size 8!) Over the winter, I didn't pay too much attention since I was fully clothed, but now that we are coming into the warmer weather, I find that I'm embarrassed by my "bat wings" and "droopy" knees. Not to mention my belly rolls. It's depressing and reminds me of when I was fat and unhealthy. I want to have it removed, but insurance won't pay for it. Hubby is not bothered by it and says I should leave well enough alone as it's a reminder of what I don't want to go back to, but it's really starting to bother me. What has your experience been? Is there a psychological improvement with skin removal or is it just more scars to deal with?

I don't have much advice as I am not there yet but wanted to say Congrats on the great work! I am 11 1/2 months post-op and down 145 pounds and the excess skin REALLY bothers me, so I had a consultation last week and plan on having surgery this fall/winter. For the most part, it isn't something that insurance covers (mine isn't anyway), but it seems from several who have had the procedures that I recently have corresponded with (@@Elode, @@CowgirlJane, @@JamieLogical, @@NewSetOfCurves, @SpiceyFrog) - all say it was worth every penny! For me, I know it will have a psychological improvement!

I had face lift, brachioplasty, tummy tuck, inner thigh lift, circumfrential body lift and breast lift. All cash; happy with all of it. YES to psychological lift. But do realize you trade the deflated skin for lots of scars. I prefer the scars. Get several consults; go for the free ones. Pick a Dr. you trust and who seems passionate.

I had brachioplasty and breast augmentation/lift in December 2015 and I am ecstatic to wear sleeveless shirts and dresses this summer for the first time since I was a teenager! I paid cash for both and it was worth every single penny. In December 2016 I will be having a thigh lift and tummy tuck; the tummy tuck will be paid for by my insurance, but I will have to pay for the thigh lift out of pocket. The scars on my arms are visable, however it's only been five months and they are still fading, but even if they did not fade a bit from today, it's soooo much better than having the bat wings!!

Thank you. Ironically I had a breast reduction in 2005. The "girls" are pretty small now. Could really use a lift! I may start with arms and breasts, then move on to tummy. I've heard that's where the best results come in to play.

I had brachioplasty and breast augmentation/lift in December 2015 and I am ecstatic to wear sleeveless shirts and dresses this summer for the first time since I was a teenager! I paid cash for both and it was worth every single penny. In December 2016 I will be having a thigh lift and tummy tuck; the tummy tuck will be paid for by my insurance, but I will have to pay for the thigh lift out of pocket. The scars on my arms are visable, however it's only been five months and they are still fading, but even if they did not fade a bit from today, it's soooo much better than having the bat wings!!

how much did your surgeries cost? are any of the skin removals covered by insurance?

How did you get your insurance company to pay for the tummy tuck?