Lost 101 Lbs. Have Loose Skin. Also Developed B.D.D. Afraid to Consult with a Surgeon.

Hello Kevin,

Absolutely amazing transformation you have done to yourself!

I have seen so many people who have lost more than 100 pounds, and I can tell you that those who did it on their own without bariatric surgery (gastric bypass or lap bands) are far more concerned about every ounce of fat, every inch of skin, and are much more fearful of becoming heavy again.  I would refrain from labels such as BDD. You do not need to see a psychiatrist/psychologist.

I know the photos you took don't tell the whole story of what's bothering you, but let me tell you that you have performed a greater transformation in your appearance than any plastic surgical procedure can for you now. 

Please visit a few surgeons that specialize in post bariatric plastic surgery and have them evaluate you.  Tell them everything and be honest.  The more detail you can give them, the more certain they will be about being able to help you.

Best of luck!

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding what to do after a 101-pound weight loss, having loose skin, and the fact that you developed body dysphoria disorder and are afraid to consult with a (plastic) surgeon. Thank you for your history and your pictures. Most plastic surgeons would agree that you need to discuss your fears with your psychiatrist or psychologist. It is important to go into reconstructive plastic surgery after massive weight loss with realistic expectations and a clear mind. If you have body dysphoria disorder, even if you achieve perfect plastic surgery results, your brain may not correctly perceive your results. With body dysphoria disorder, you may continue to be troubled by the appearance of your body. You may be more troubled than before your surgery. Your state of mind could lead to depression and rebound weight gain. Thus, if you have body dysphoria disorder, plastic surgery may not be your answer. Therefore, you must consult with your psychologist or psychiatrist before you consider plastic surgery. You must enter plastic surgery with the correct mindset and realistic expectations. I'm sorry that you don't see yourself for who you are but you look healthy and fit. I understand the struggle, as many of my patients experienced body dysmorphia at some point throughout their journey.

Thank you for your question regarding what to do if you’ve lost 101 pounds, have loose skin, and have body dysmorphia disorder, and are afraid to consult with a plastic surgeon. Typically, consultations do not hurt. However, before I’m barking upon any reconstructive surgery, I would highly suggest you discuss your concerns with your psychiatrist or psychologist.. If you have any further questions regarding the lower body lift, 360-degree circumferential lower body lift, belt lipectomy, belt abdominoplasty, or belt dermolipectomy, please consult with an experienced plastic surgeon. Since the body lift is a significant procedure, it is recommended to seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing lower body lifts. Do your research. Ensure they have performed at least 100 circumferential lower body lift surgeries and have the before-and-after pictures to prove it. Carefully examine their before-and-after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf. If you cannot find an experienced lower body lift surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling out of state if necessary.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen, MD, MBA, FACS, FICS, FASMBS (President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery RealSelf Hall of Fame, and RealSelf Doctor Advisory Board for Medical Review and Consumer Panel.)

Dear Kevin,

I congratulate you on your life style change and weight loss!  It is very common and normal to feel fat even when you have lost all the excess body weight.   Obviously your in excellent condition.  The excess skin can be removed in one 3.5-4.5 hr surgery. This surgery would include a total body lift, brachialplasty if needed and chest reduction w/wo pec implants This would not include a thigh lift.  Which would be done a month or so later if needed.  This is an outpatient procedure.  I wish you well in your quest for a new body.

 

Sincerely,

Anire Okpaku MD FACS

You have achieved a lot, and you look very good. You mentioned you developed Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). You need to see a psychiatrist before considering any surgery. That probably will be helpful for you in your situation.