How likely is it that I will need skin removal surgery after 100 lbs weight loss? I'm 18.5 years old.

Question

I weight 260lbs, want to lose 100lbs. I've been overweight my whole life and I am 18.5 years old. I need to know if it is likely that I will have excess skin, just so I can start saving up for a removal surgery. Thanks!

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Hello Kathy.I believe that most people who lose 100 pounds need skin removal somewhere on their body when the weight loss has stabilized. For most, being stable for 6 months is very important. The vast majority of patients start with the abdomen, but not always. Since you're so young, you should consider avoiding the muscle work if there is a need to get rid of skin the central body.For young people, surgery of the breasts becomes an important consideration and is just as popular as abdominal surgery.Best wishes with your weight loss!

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Without pictures or an exam, it can be impossible to determine an answer to your question. That being said, when patients lose a significant amount of weight as you are talking about, they are often left with a significant amount of skin that needs to be addressed. I would assume that you would also likely end up with some areas that you would consider need improvement after massive weight loss as well.Hope this helps!

William J. Welsh, MD (retired) · Answer

It would be very rare - though have seen it! For you to lose that much weight and not need some skin excision: The fact that you are only 18 is a good thing in that regard as your skin content of beneficial collagen fibers is much higher than it would be at older ages.

How likely is it that I will need skin removal surgery after 100 lbs weight loss? I'm 18.5 years old.

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Panniculectomy

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

How likely is it that I will need skin removal surgery after 100 lbs weight loss? I'm 18.5 years old.

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Panniculectomy

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