Question:
LOOSE SKIN!!

DOES ANYONE KNOE IF YOU HAVE LOOSE SKIN IF YOU START OUT WITH A 40 BMI? IF SO TO WHAT DEGREE?    — latrishanickle (posted on February 21, 2003)

February 21, 2003
There are so many things to factor in. How long have you been overweight, genetics, rate of loss, do you have stretch marks..... There is really no way to tell ahead of time. I guess even though I feel like a Sharpei, I would rather have the wrinkled skin than all of the fat back.
   — Dana B.

February 21, 2003
I started with a BMI of 42, I've lost 111 lbs. and yes I have some loose skin around my stomach and legs. Its really not that bad but after awhile you think, I've lost all this weight look good in clothes why not look good naked. I will probably get a tummy tuck someday.
   — jfoulk4663

February 21, 2003
Latricia, Dana is right. You cannot tell if you will end up with loose skin with a BMI of 40 or higher. There are so many things that come into play-usually the younger you are, the more elasticity the skin has, but that is not always the case. Good genes also helps. Also, have you had children-the more children, the more the muscles will require tightening during a tummy tuck. How long were you heavy? Skin stretched out for years often does not have good elasticity to bounce back. And how fast will you lose? The slower you lose, the less loose skin, but not always. Everyone is different and unfortunately no good predictors.
   — Cindy R.

February 21, 2003
I started out a "lightweight" (that still cracks me up) with a BMI of 40. I went from a size 24 to a 4 and I have no loose skin problems. I do take Real Meals everyday for the extra protein and lean muscle stimulators to prevent the hanging skin. It has helped me to prevent breaking down my underlying muscle so I don't have the saggy appearance. Read my profile for more.
   — Linda A.

February 21, 2003
I'm sorry to say that I started out with a BMI of 42. Now at about a 24 BMI and -116 pounds, I have a lot of "crepe-like" skin on my thighs and upper arms. It's like I'm "extra-wrinkled" in those areas. I'm also 48 years old, however. I'd hoped not to have the skin problem, but I do have it. I'm seriously looking at having plastic surgery in summer 2004, if my skin doesn't tighten up.
   — Kathy J.

February 21, 2003
Just a post-script: I'd rather have extra skin ANYDAY rather than the fat I used to have! It's just that vanity does kick in. I like how I look clothed now; I also want to like how I look naked. lol.
   — Kathy J.

February 27, 2003
I am not thrilled with the loose skin I have. I think it looks gross and not necessarily better than fat. however all my improved health issues make it all worth it. That and the prospect of plastic surgery in 1 1/2 years. I like how I look in my clothes a lot better thinner tho.
   — **willow**

February 27, 2003
Try calling a major burn center and see if you can donate the skin. This an option that is real and not to well known. Good luck!!!!
   — Robert C.

February 27, 2003
That isn't always in the case..I know when I had my TT here in PA I offered the skin to the burn unti and was turned down flat..they said they have more than enough skin from cadavers..so dont be surprised if you get turned down.
   — [Deactivated Member]

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