Question:
Postop plastic surgery

Hello All. Now that I have been approved, my mind has shifted to other aspects of WLS. I am now concerned about the hanging skin that most have after losing such a substantial amount of weight. It is very doubtful that my insurance would cover removal later (even if I have rashes, etc.) and I know I will not be able to afford it since I will be still paying for the WLS. My question is this- I am 312lbs. (hope to get down to 160/170), 5'6, 30 years old and am curious about hanging skin on the legs. I can handle it on my arms and even around my waist, but I want to be able to wear shorts in public sometime in my life! My thighs are large, but I don't think they are any bigger than anyone else's at my size/height. My calves are also big, but oddly enough, it seems to be muscle. I plan to work out on a regular basis after surgery. What are the chances of me not having to have a leg lift? I know it's an indiviual situation for everyone- I'm just trying to find out my odds. Thanks for any input!    — karmiausnic (posted on August 12, 2002)

August 11, 2002
Hi..I started roughly the same as you (5'4, 316, 32yr)...I have loose skin on my thighs, alittle on the calves, too, but not enough to keep me from wearing shorts and such. I'm 2 weeks short of being 1 year post op, down 152lbs to 164 now and feel wonderful. If you go to my profile, I have a pic of me 16lbs ago in shorts...take a look...Good luck, and congratulations!
   — lily1968

August 11, 2002
Your concerns are certainly understandeable and now is a great time to take action. I am 5'6 started at 260 pounds and am down to 129. I gotta be honest with you my inner thighs are pretty wrinkly. Oddly enough it is only the inner thighs and if I wear my shorts a little longer it hides it very well. I also like those biker shorts that sorta suck everything in. My arms are very flabby and recently i was denied by my insurance. I am 32 years old and thought my skin would be a little more flexible. The good news is.....I could care less!!!! I feel so great about my weightloss and the fact I can wear a size 8 nothing could bring me down!!!! Water makes a big difference is skin resiliency and toning with light weights helps as well. It would be great if you could start now even if it's just to get in the habit. I really wish I would have. Good Luck on your journey!!!
   — kristen H.

August 12, 2002
Walking does wonders for the outer thighs. I personally have little to no fat on them. The inner thighs are another story. The skin does have theat crepey look and they do hang. I will have them done one day but it probably won't be for about 3 years (too expensive). As long as your shorts are't TOO short, they hould cover up this excess skin. Mine do. Start walking now and walk 5 days a week religiously after WLS and you will see a tremendous difference.
   — Patty H.