Question:
Loose skin issues

What is the approximate percentage of people who have horrible, loose, saggy skin after the gastric bypass? The lap band? Is there a better chance or that not happening with one or the other? Can it truly be prevented after either procedure with tons of exercise? Or not?? Thanks!    — loveshackdeb (posted on February 22, 2009)

February 22, 2009
My doctor says that bandsters generally don't need as much PS, as our weight comes off slower, and your skin has more time to shrink with your body. I do know one rny patient who didn't have to have PS. She swears by lots of lotion. She globs lotion all over 4-5 times every day. Personally, I think the key to it is how elastic your skin is. I think it differs from person to person.
   — [Deactivated Member]

February 22, 2009
I am about 4 mos out of rny gb and have tons of loose skin. I am down 76 lbs now, I do hit the gym often. I am 26. I was 306 at my highest weight and very muscular at that time. Eventhough I hit the gym often I will most likely have to have skin removed from my tummy and arms, right now those are the worst areas. Good luck!!! Tiffany
   — tiffaney2183

February 22, 2009
I was told that it would depend on your family genes. My mother had 7 children and has very little excess skin, cellulite or stretch marks. I'm hoping that the doctors are right about it being genetic. So far, I see that I have some stretch marks but my mom was never as big as me. I've also been told that keeping the skin's elasticity is integral, so I drink lots of water. I'm hoping to avoid plastic surgery simply because I don't think I can handle it. I could be wrong but that's how I feel right now. I do need to start working out because skin just looks better draped over a muscle. I had the VSG 11-12-2008. Good Luck to you in your choice. Best Wishes for a wonderful outcome. Hugs, Corina
   — Corina C

February 22, 2009
I had RNY in October 08. I've lost over 60 pounds so far and have about that much to lose again. I have been working out at the gym with a personal trainer and am on a body building regime (teeny muscles were hidden underneath!) by lifting weights, etc. However, I have to rave about the lotions application. I am now my best customer! This is NOT intended to be an advert, just my experience...I use the Mary Kay Timewise system (Miracle Set) and loads of the Firming Eye Night Cream on my neck and decolletage. It has done wonders. Two of the three deep lines around my neck are gone forever. The MK CelluShape system is improving my soft tummy as well, but I will require PS there. I am 55 years old and the elasticity is not completely restored , of course. My Bingo Wings are another thing...triceps exercises are helping but there is a lot of gravity and flab to counteract...! I believe that there is a lot you can do to improve your skin. Making sure that you drink your water is the FIRST and LAST miracle treatment, however. Bettina Healey
   — texasmroning

February 22, 2009
It depends on so much - your age, your genetics, how much weight you lose. I am 54, and once I get down to my goal weight I will have lost over 200 lbs. Skin can only shrink so much! Lotions help with stretch marks. Water keeps you and your skin hydrated, but if you are older and have a lot of weight to lose, chances are you will either need surgery or need to get clothing such as Spanx to hold you together :)
   — Wendy M.

February 22, 2009
IF YOUR SKIN IS DAMAGED...LIKE WITH STRETCH MARKS..IT WILL SAG. ALSO, THERE ARE ALOT OF OTHER FACTORS, AGE, GENES, EXERCISE, ETC...i HAVE SOME LOOSE SKIN BUT WOULD TAKE THAT OVER THE FAT ANYDAY! BEST OF LUCK TO YOU!
   — gpcmist

February 22, 2009
As others have said, it is genetics and age. When I lost weight 15 years ago, there was less saggy skin. But now, at 56 and 1.5 years post RNY, I have tons and tons. No matter how much exercise I do (and I do at least 4-5 hrs/wk of cardio + weight lifting) it absolutely will not shrink back to anything semi-normal.
   — Cathy 1.