Solutions for Loose Skin on Abdomen?

Question

I am a thin, physically fit woman of 50 - 5'4, 105 pds. My abdomen is in good shape with excellent muscle tone. I have loose skin on the abdomen, probably as a result of weight loss/age. Any non-surgical options? If surgery is the answer, would I need a full tummy tuck to just get rid of the skin? I do have secondary lymphedema in my left leg ( under control) and am hesitant to do anything that could further damage my lymphatic system. Thank you!

Andrew Smith, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, at this time there are no non-surgical options to tighten loose abdominal skin. There are some lasers that you can try that will temporarily help slight looseness but if you have significant loose skin, an abdominoplasty is what you need. If you don't need abdominal muscle repair, you may be able to have a skin only tummy tuck or if you are a candidate, a mini-tummy tuck. It's difficult to say what would be the best option for you without photos or a physical exam, so make sure you consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to see what the best options are for you. Make sure that you disclose your lymphedema to your surgeon to make sure you have the appropriate tests prior to surgery as it's always best to be safe than have complications later that could've been avoided.

Scott C. Sattler, MD, FACS · Answer

There are no good non-invasive was to tighten loose abdominal skin - skin laxity is a mechanical problem, and the solution is surgical - you need a tummy tuck. I've had experience with laser liposuction, ultra-sound based technologies and other non-invasive devices - they don't work for moderate and severe skin laxity.

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

Without pictures, I cannot say if tummy tuck is right for you.  I also need more information to know  whether it is safe to do the surgery.  Specifically, what is the cause of your current lymphedema?

Sanjay Lalla, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello. Thanks for your inquiry. The only way to remove loose skin from weight loss is to perform a tummy tuck. You don't have to have muscle repair; it can be a skin only procedure. It should not harm your lymphatics at all.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Nonsurgical options are unavailable at this time, but a minitummy tuck or short scar tummy tuck may offer a solution without having the hip to hip scar of a conventional tummy tuck. I only make the scar as long as is absolutely necessary, and I can sometimes make the incision about 12 inches long or less while still getting enough skin out to do the tummy tuck. Find a plastic surgeon with ELITE credentials who performs hundreds of tummy tuck procedures each year. Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Solutions for Loose Skin on Abdomen?

Answers (5)