Question:
WLS Surgery---Flabby skin

I am hoping to have surgery and have my initial consult scheduled tomorrow, as a matter of fact. I have noticed alot of talk about tucking this and tucking that, with this operations paid for on a cash basis. I am 200 pounds overweight, I do carry my weight well, but just how much skin are we talking about? I know I shouldnt be worried about appearences yet, but doesnt skin have some elasticity? I know my problem areas will probably need attention, but is there any NON surgical means to deal with this? Creams, supports and such not? I am only 35 and my skin still seems to be in pretty good shape. Doesnt exercise help? I am a single mom of modest means and may never be able to afford plastic surgery. Please let me know it any one has any feelings on this. It is becoming a source of depression for me. Thanks all!    — Lisa N. (posted on April 18, 2000)

April 18, 2000
Exercise will definitely help, but everyone's skin is different, and you may or may not have a lot of excess skin. Age also has something to do with it. Don't focus on the potential need or cost of plastic surgery. One of my doctors even tried to use that as a scare tactic not to have the surgery. I am single, and I figure my tummy tuck will make a great wedding present! One woman at my support group has started a tummy tuck savings fund which even her daughter contributed to. (Think of all the money you'll save when you don't have to buy all that garbage junk food anymore, or when you can actually buy normal size clothes and not have to pay double for all the extra material, or when you don't have to buy all those prescriptions again because your obesity related health problems have gone away). The extra skin I may or may not have will certainly look better than the extra 175 pounds I am now carrying!
   — Paula G.