Excess skin removal procedures help people who lose a significant amount of weight through bariatric surgery (weight loss surgery) or lifestyle changes. Plastic (cosmetic) surgeries, such as panniculectomy, tummy tucks, and arm lifts (brachioplasty), can get rid of sagging, excess skin to improve appearance, comfort, and clothing fit.
What Is Excess Skin Removal Surgery?
Excess skin removal involves various plastic surgeries in Gurgaon for excess skin removal that are designed to remove loose, sagging skin. These surgeries can reshape your body and are often needed after major weight loss, typically a loss of 100 pounds or more.
Who Does Excess Skin Affect?
People with obesity may experience excess skin after losing weight through bariatric surgery or healthy lifestyle changes. When you carry extra weight, your skin and tissue stretch to accommodate the body’s larger size, causing a loss of elasticity. After significant weight loss, the stretched skin often cannot conform to your body’s new shape and may hang loosely.
Why Do People Have Excess Skin Removal Surgery?
Excess skin can affect your:
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Self-confidence: Loose skin may make it difficult to feel comfortable in your body.
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Comfort and clothing: It can be challenging to find clothes that fit well.
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Health: Heavy, hanging skin may lead to pain, irritation, or infections, including skin fungus and rashes in skin folds.
Who Is a Candidate for Excess Skin Removal Surgery?
Plastic or cosmetic surgeons typically perform excess skin removal procedures. To be considered a good candidate, you should:
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Have maintained your goal weight for at least six months following major weight loss.
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Commit to a healthy lifestyle to help maintain weight loss.
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Avoid smoking or using tobacco products.
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Be in generally good health without conditions that increase surgical risks.
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Have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes.
Types of Excess Skin Removal Procedures
Depending on your needs, you may require a combination of the following procedures:
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Arm lift (Brachioplasty): Removes sagging skin from the upper arms.
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Breast lift (Mastopexy): Firms breasts by tightening tissue and removing excess skin.
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Facelift (Rhytidectomy): Smooths facial skin and removes loose skin around the neck.
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Lower body lift: Targets the stomach, buttocks, and outer thighs.
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Panniculectomy: Removes the apron of skin (pannus) below the belly button.
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Thigh lift: Refines the shape of the inner thighs.
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Tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty): Removes excess abdominal skin and tightens muscles.
Preparing for Surgery
Before surgery, your doctor may advise you to:
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Undergo blood work.
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Stop certain medications like aspirin or NSAIDs.
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Discontinue vitamins and herbal supplements.
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Quit smoking.
During Surgery
Surgery may occur at a hospital (requiring an overnight stay) or a surgical facility (outpatient). Some procedures can be combined, such as a panniculectomy with a tummy tuck. Multiple stages may be required to achieve your desired results.
Can It Be Done With Weight Loss Surgery?
No. Excess skin removal is performed after weight loss surgery. It may take 1–2 years to reach your target weight and another six months of weight maintenance before body contouring can begin. Bariatric surgeons handle weight loss procedures, while plastic surgeons perform body contouring.
Risks and Recovery
Scarring
All excess skin removal surgeries leave scars, though surgeons aim to place incisions in less noticeable areas, like the bikini line or natural body creases.
Pain
Expect discomfort for a few weeks post-surgery. You may need help with daily tasks during early recovery.
Risks
All surgeries carry risks, such as:
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Bleeding or blood clots
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Infection
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Scarring
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Changes in skin sensation
Recovery Timeline
Recovery varies depending on the procedures but may include:
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Drains to remove fluid (for 1–2 weeks)
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Pain medications
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Restricted activity for up to 6 weeks
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Returning to work in 1–3 weeks
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Sleeping with elevated knees after lower body procedures
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Walking regularly to prevent blood clots
Results
Initial results appear after swelling subsides, but final results may take up to two years and depend on maintaining a stable weight. Significant weight gain and loss after surgery can cause skin to stretch and sag again.
When to Contact a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
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Chest pain, fainting, or trouble breathing
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Fever or signs of infection at incision sites
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Nausea, vomiting, or severe swelling
A Final Note
Significant weight loss is an incredible achievement. However, dealing with the aftermath of excess skin can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Body contouring procedures like panniculectomy, tummy tucks, and arm lifts offer a way to enhance comfort, appearance, and self-esteem. For those considering these procedures in Gurgaon, Cocoona Centre for Aesthetic Transformation is one of the most trusted names in plastic surgery. Their team of expert surgeons delivers personalized care and high-quality outcomes for individuals seeking excess skin removal and body contouring solutions.