Question:
Why do some WLS patients have Excess Skin and some don't

I am wondering why:In some of the photos I have viewed on this site, I see some people with excess skin and some without?    — Chandra C. (posted on August 8, 2003)

August 8, 2003
Simply put: genetics and 'tucks'.
   — eaamc

August 8, 2003
The amount of excess skin depends on a bunch of factors. The most important ones are probably: starting weight, age, body shape and genetics. There isn't much you can do to about any of those things. Some things that you can control that may help your skin look better are: exercise, and hydration.
   — Amber L.

August 8, 2003
Age also seems to play a role. The younger you are, the more elastic your skin is.
   — Cosmo K.

August 8, 2003
All along, my nutritionist and personal trainer have assured me that at even 39 yo, if I commit to regular exercise (especially weight training), this will significantly help with the sagging skin. I'm almost 11 months post-op, 110 lbs gone, and don't really have any, except a little under my arms. I focus on cardio and weight training 4-5x per week (which is much more efficient than solely cardio). Also, as I'm building muscle and losing fat, the skin issue hasn't really become one. I have also read that the skin will recede more quickly if exercise is a part of the routine. Conversely, however, if the skin has been stretched out beyond repair, the tissue molecules are sometimes no longer present to retract.
   — Kimberly L. A.

August 8, 2003
I am 56 and have lost 70 lbs with 20 to lose to reach my goal. I am a little saggy here and there (was a little saggy anyway due to my age0 but have none to the big wads of excess skin on my thighs arms, and no apron from my tummy.
   — Delores S.

August 9, 2003
Age, where you carried your weight, stretch marks, muscle tone...all come into play. Everyone's body is different. You have to decide if you are happy with the end results once you get to or near goal. In my particular case, I had PS to get the body image and physical body to be in unison and I'm amazingly pleased with the results. I have a better, leaner and tighter body than I had in high school, thanks to plenty of will power (and won't power), exerise, water, protein and the skilled hands of my WLS and plastic surgeon. Best of luck to you.
   — DianeN