Would you ever perform or recommend any body lift procedures for patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? (age: 27)

Question

I've lost over 100 lbs, and because of EDS, my loose skin is a much bigger issue than for normal people. It's extensive, and tears/bruises any time I get dressed or exercise. It's worse of my arms and thighs, but isn't exactly pleasant on my torso, either. I've also been experiencing a lot of breast and back pain, because while the rest of me shrunk, I'm now a droopy F cup. Do my increased surgical risks outweigh my long term discomfort/risk of infection from tears?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the safety and appropriateness of undergoing body lift procedures with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), especially after significant weight loss. First, congratulations on losing over 100 pounds—that is an incredible accomplishment. I also understand how frustrating and painful the resulting loose skin can be, particularly with the added challenges that come with EDS.

Patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome have fragile connective tissue, which can result in skin that is more prone to bruising, delayed wound healing, and scarring complications. These risks do not automatically rule out body contouring surgery, but they do require a much more cautious and customized approach. I have performed skin removal procedures, including arm lifts, thigh lifts, and body lifts, on patients with EDS. However, these cases must be carefully staged and managed in collaboration with a medical team familiar with your condition.

With EDS, surgical incisions are typically placed and closed in a way that minimizes tension on the skin. Extra steps may be taken to support healing, such as extended use of compression garments, silicone sheeting, or scar therapy. Your surgeon may also recommend longer healing timelines between stages of surgery. In your case, a breast lift with possible reduction may also be warranted to address your back pain and discomfort.

Ultimately, the decision to proceed comes down to weighing your long-term quality of life—including recurrent skin tears, infections, and discomfort—against the surgical risks. If your EDS is a milder form and you have no history of major wound complications or vascular involvement, then you may still be a candidate for staged reconstructive body contouring. It’s critical to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with EDS patients and can coordinate care with your primary doctor or geneticist.

Thank you again for your important question. I hope this provides clarity on your options and what to expect.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

David Stoker, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your loss of over 100 lbs.  I would NOT recommend surgery because of your EDS.  The risks would be quite high.  Do the best to take care of your self through diet and exercise.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Thanks for you question.  I would be concerned about wound healing issues after surgery.  That stated, I haven't operated on a patient with problem so perhaps a surgeon with prior experience will be able to give you a better idea about the potential outcomes and risks.

Robert Najera, MD · Answer

Well done with your extensive weight loss. Ehlers Danlos Syndrome is an especially difficult problem for plastic surgeons to deal with. Most commonly, people with EDS have some difficulty with wound healing. I would probably consult with an experienced plastic surgeon before proceeding with a body lift.

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear EDSPatient,

Thank
you for your clinical post and excellent clinical question.  Congratulations on your weight loss; however,
it has resulted in skin laxity.  To make
matters worse, you suffer from the congenital collagen abnormality syndrome of
EDS.  EDS patients generally do have a
more difficult time with wound healing, as production of collagen is
compromised and it is the production of collagen in primary wound healing that
is critical to uneventful postsurgical outcomes.

I
would definitely proceed cautiously and seek out a physician with experience
with EDS surgery.  In general, very
conservative procedures – small-zone skin laxity removals and certainly not
closed under extreme tension.  The
postoperative support would be critical and nutritional optimization, which may
be a factor if you’re still losing weight.

Performing
small lift and skin removal excisions without tension, sequential over time, is
probably your best option.  If there is a
complication in a small area with wound healing, all other surgical excisions
and hopes and options would probably be abandoned at that point in time.

I
think there is hope.  You’ve made a
commitment to losing weight and there may be an opportunity to tighten up some
of the loose skin areas one small zone at a time.

I
hope this information has been of some assistance and best of luck.

For
more information, please review

Sincerely,

R.
Stephen Mulholland, M.D.

Certified
Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville,
Toronto

Would you ever perform or recommend any body lift procedures for patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? (age: 27)

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Would you ever perform or recommend any body lift procedures for patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome? (age: 27)

Answers (5)

Answer: Body lift and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome

Answer: Body lift and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome

Answer: Body lift procedures

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Everything you need to know about Body Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.