I'm 66 years old. Am I a candidate for getting rid of a LOT of loose skin w/o surgery using Smartlipo?

Question

I had Bariatric Bypass in 2009 & also had an around the world in about 2011. I have a lot of loose skin and need something done for arms, thighs, waistline, etc. I actually have a very large dimple on the outside of my left thigh that needs to go also. What are my chances of my skin shrinking enough without removing it? I can send pix later. I have very poor skin and a lot of cellulite. 3-4 inches of wings hanging down. I work out at gym 2- 3 times a week.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Based upon your description, skin removal would be better.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA..........

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Liposuction typically is not the best treatment for loose skin.  I would suggest a formal consultation to see if it is all skin laxity that you have or if there is some fat that removal with liposuction (SmartLipo) would help your skin retraction.  We have a team approach with our plastic surgeons involved in the consultation incase more is needed such as surgical or nonsurgical options.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction, even with the laser, will not remove excessive skin. After bariatric surgery, most patients will need surgery, like tummy tucks and thigh lifts, to remove the excess skin and reshape their bodies. I would suggest meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon and discussing your concerns.

Daniel P. Friedmann, MD · Answer

Marye48,I honestly doubt that any laser tightening procedure (such as SmartLipo) will give you significant improvement in your waistline. The SmartLipo laser may lead to some improvement in the neck and arms, but with 3-4 inches of hanging skin, it is difficult to say whether you would be able to appreciate the result. I think you would be best off being evaluated for an abdominoplasty and arm/thigh lift. However, if you are anti-surgery at this point, it would not be entirely unreasonable to try a less invasive option like the SmartLipo first. I hope that this helps.

Sherwood Baxt, MD (retired) · Answer

No and no. This is not what Smartlipo was designed for. Unfortunately many nonsurgeons have been exaggerating is "skin shrinkage" potential. Ask a few local BCPS and I think you will hear the same.

I'm 66 years old. Am I a candidate for getting rid of a LOT of loose skin w/o surgery using Smartlipo?

Answers (5)

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