Understanding Loose Skin Removal Surgery
People often believe that they need liposuction to fix loose skin issues. But liposuction’s goal is removing excess fat deposits under the skin. The procedure doesn’t address sagging skin at all. In fact, liposuction can cause loose skin depending on where it is performed and how much fat is removed.
The only way to address excess skin is with skin removal surgery. The goal of this surgery is to remove the loose, sagging skin and improve both body contours and patient comfort. Plastic surgeons perform the procedure on various parts of the body as needed, and it can greatly improve the patient’s quality of life after weight loss. Ideal candidates for skin removal surgery are those who have reached their goal weight and remained there for at least six months.
Body Contouring Procedures for Loose Skin
Skin removal surgery is actually a broad term that refers to several different surgeries, all with the same goal. Your surgeon may refer to your surgery by a different name based on where it is being performed.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
A tummy tuck, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that aims to create a firmer, smoother abdomen by removing excess skin and fat while tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. Most patients with excess skin can benefit from a tummy tuck.
Tummy tucks are performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, an incision is made low on the abdomen, just above the pubic hairline. After making the incision, your surgeon will check the muscle of your abdominal wall for signs of damage. Pregnancy, exercise, and strain can cause muscle tearing. If present, your surgeon will correct any problems with the muscles and tighten them.
Once the muscle repair is completed, if applicable, the excess skin is trimmed away. The remaining skin is pulled tight over the abdomen and the incision is closed. The result is a smooth abdomen with a toned appearance and aesthetically pleasing contour.
Arm Lift
Sometimes weight loss results in excess skin that hangs from the upper arms, creating a condition sometimes referred to as bat wings. An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove this excess skin and fat from the upper arms.
During this procedure, your surgeon has options about where to make the incision depending on the amount and location of the skin. They may make an inner arm incision that extends from the underarm area to just above the elbow, running along the inside of the arm. The other option is to run the incision along the back of the arm for those whose excess skin is more pronounced in that area. The excess skin is then removed and the incision closed.
Thigh Lift
A thigh lift, or thighplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at removing excess skin and fat from the thighs to create a more toned and proportionate appearance. During an inner thigh lift, the incision extends from the groin area down to the knee, allowing for skin removal in the inner thigh. During an outer thigh lift, the incisions runs from the groin around the hip. The incision is made, excess skin is removed, and the incision is closed again.
Breast Lift
Medically known as mastopexy, a breast lift is a surgical procedure designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts, resulting in a more youthful and uplifted breast contour. A breast lift will remove excess skin and allow your breasts to sit higher on your chest, but it will not increase their size. You will need to add an augmentation surgery to your lift if you wish to go bigger.
There are several different types of incisions used for breast lifts based on how much tissue must be removed and how much reshaping needs to be done. Your surgeon will discuss this with you prior to your surgery so you know what to expect.
Once the incision is made, excess skin is removed and the remaining tissue is lifted and reshaped to improve breast contour and firmness. The nipple and areola are then moved to a more youthful height and, if necessary, enlarged areolas are reduced by excising skin at the perimeter. The incision is then closed.
Benefits of Surgical Skin Removal
One benefit of surgical skin removal is increased health and comfort. When extreme, hanging skin can create painful sores and chafing. Sagging skin can also get in the way during physical activity. Removing the skin solves these problems.
Removing extra skin also allows you to wear the clothing you want comfortably and confidently. That confidence is another compelling reason to remove loose skin. Hanging skin just doesn’t look great and it can be hard to hide. Most patients find that getting rid of it provides a massive boost to their self-esteem.
As an added bonus, you may notice that your posture improves. Excess skin can pull you down, especially when it hangs from your abdomen. Getting rid of the abdominal skin and, in some cases, repairing torn abdominal muscles, can strengthen your core and improve your posture.