questions

Hi! My name is Marcia and I'm considering surgery. I still have a lot of research to do, but I'm seriously thinking about it. One concern I have is all the extra skin that can be left over. I have approximately 200# to lose and I'm 55. I'm actually in quite good health - no diabetes, no hp, etc. I'm also fortunate to have good genes and some say I could pass for 40. I'm pretty sure that losing all that weight will age me, especially with the extra skin I hear so much about. Has anyone last that much weight and not had to have reconstructive surgery afterwards? Is there anyway to minimize all that extra skin? Also, what do you recommend as the best surgery to have? I've been looking at a lap band surgery that is potentially reversible. Any advice while I'm considering this? Thanks a lot!! I really appreciate your help with this. Take care, Marcia

I know of nothing to stop the extra skin. Some have more than others because of our bodies makeup. Your surgeon should be the one to advise you on what surgery is best for you. They seem to know better... Why would you consider reversing it? The only time I would want mine reversed would be a dire emergency.....I don't want to go back to the way I was before..... Talk to some of us ladies over on the Over 50 forums....... Good luck with your research Darlene

Hi Marcia! There are many factors that take place as far as extra skin goes. Age, genetics, weight distribution, skin elasticity, etc. No one can give you a conclusive answer on this. I lost 178lbs and have not had to have any reconstructive surgery. I attribute that to good genetics, I was 36 when I had surgery and I worked out before and after surgery. The choice of what surgery to have has to be yours and your surgeons. For me, rny was the right choice, but everyone is different. Do your research here at OH, other sites on the web, talk to your surgeon, go to support group meetings, etc. Good Luck to You!!!! Tracy B 328/150 5'9"

Marcia- I lost close to 140. My extra skin wasn't so bad. I'm 41 years old. 5'7 started out at 282, and for the past 3 years have generally been between 143-146. People always comment that they are surprised that I didn't have more excess skin. But I did choice to have a Lower body lift last week, I did it for pure vanity reasons. I am planning on having a breast lift and inner thigh lift, next Jan. It's really a personal decision, you have to make, as to how do you feel with how you look post op. Donna open rny march 18 2003 282/143/140