Excess Skin Often a Side Effect of Weight Loss Surgery

One side effect of weight loss surgery that many people have to deal with after the procedure is excess, saggy skin that occurs after major weight loss, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The more weight you lose, the more excess or saggy skin you could have, according to the NIH. Skin can become saggy when it is not elastic enough to conform to a person’s change in body size.

Your body will experience many changes between 6 and 18 months after surgery, and how your body responds to the changes – including excess skin – depends on a variety of factors including age, amount of weight lost, genetics, exercise, and tobacco use, according to the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). 

Most surgeons prefer patients wait at least 18 months before considering excess skin removal, according to the ASMBS. However, many patients wear compression clothing in the meantime to help with their appearance and clothing fit.

Oftentimes, weight loss surgery patients work with a plastic surgeon to remove excess abdominal and breast skin. Removal of skin from these areas of the body are usually covered by insurance for hygiene reasons, which include reducing moisture and rashes, according to the ASMBS. 

Other areas, such as arms and neck, often are not covered by insurance because they are considered cosmetic rather than medically necessary, according to the ASMBS. If you are interested in excess skin removal from these body parts, talk with your doctor about your options.

For more information about minimizing excess skin after weight loss surgery, talk with your doctor or visit Premier Weight Loss Solutions.