According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 40% of Americans suffer from obesity. If you are one of these people and trying to get back into shape, losing weight is the ultimate reward for your determination, discipline, and hard work.
However, you are left with the challenge of loose skin around the face, breasts, arms, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. This is because the protein collagen, which is responsible for our skin’s elasticity, cannot shrink back after being stretched by the extra weight for too long.
Problems associated with excess, flabby skin
Loose skin not only affects your confidence and self-esteem but can also limit mobility and cause hygiene problems. Skin-on-skin contact can lead to rashes or skin sores, which can cause infections. To get rid of the excess skin you might want to consult your Houston plastic surgery specialist. The physician will advise you on what body-contouring procedures will work for you.
What body-contouring procedures could I undergo?
Body-contouring procedures depend on the location of the loose skin and your desired results. You can undergo one or more of the following:-
- Facelift – this takes care of the sagging skin on the face and neck
- Breast lift
- Brachioplasty – this is a procedure used to get rid of residual fat or excess skin in the arms
- Tummy tuck – this procedure tightens the abdominal muscles and gets rid of the sagging skin around your tummy
- Lower body lift – the procedure gets rid of the excess skin around the groin area, buttocks, and outer thighs
- Medial thigh lift
Are these procedures right for me?
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for these body-contouring procedures. Your surgeon will conduct a thorough examination and take into account your health history. For the best outcome, these procedures should be carried out after two years of the weight loss program. This gives your skin sufficient time to respond to the new diet and exercise. Body-contouring procedures should be a personal decision. Therefore, you should have realistic expectations. For you to undergo any of these procedures, you to be free of chronic medical conditions, including heart disease and diabetes.
Normally, your Houston plastic surgery specialist will ask for an approval report from your primary care physician. A plastic surgeon may discourage you from undergoing body-contouring procedures if you are a smoker. Smoking affects your blood circulation and could delay healing. Protein deficiencies could also interfere with your healing after the procedure.
If you have achieved your weight loss goals, getting rid of the excess, flabby skin will help you achieve the silhouette you’ve always wanted. Schedule an appointment with us by calling at 713-794-0368. We will discuss your options and advise you on the most appropriate body-contouring procedure.