What can be done to minimize the appearance of sagging, loose skin and cellulite on legs after weight loss? (photos)

Thank you for your question regarding the appearance of sagging, loose skin, and cellulite on your legs following your weight loss. I understand how frustrating and discouraging it can be to see these changes in your body, especially after working hard to achieve your weight loss goals.

The changes in your legs are likely due to a combination of factors, including your weight loss, genetics, and possibly sun damage. While liposuction is typically used to reduce fat, there are other options available that can help improve the appearance of your legs without further reducing their size.

First, building muscle mass through targeted exercises such as biking, swimming, leg presses, and using the stair master can help improve the tone and appearance of your legs. Strengthening the muscles in your legs, particularly the quads, can create a firmer and more lifted look, which may help reduce the appearance of sagging.

Second, non-surgical treatments like Renuvion or radiofrequency therapy may provide some improvement in skin tightness and texture. These minimally invasive treatments use energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of loose skin and cellulite.

Lastly, if you’re looking for a more dramatic improvement, surgical options such as a thigh lift could be considered. Since you’re concerned about reducing size, a crescent inner thigh lift might be a suitable option, as it focuses on removing excess skin rather than fat. The incision for this procedure is hidden high in the groin, making it less visible. For more significant sagging, a spiral or vertical thigh lift could be considered, with the incision extending from the groin down the inner thigh.

I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess your specific situation and recommend the best course of action tailored to your goals and concerns. With the right approach, it is possible to achieve a more toned and smooth appearance in your legs.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Providing that you do not want liposuction of inner thighs and knees the only other option is a skin tightening with radio frequency and J plasma modalities. Both of these will tighten the skin by gradual buildup of collagen but nobody can promise that it will create as much of improvement as you desire. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon with experience in these procedures would help. Good luck.