Skin Reduction

Definition

Skin reduction is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tissue from the body. It is often performed after significant weight loss, including that achieved with bariatric or weight-loss surgery. Skin reduction can improve comfort, mobility and appearance by removing loose, hanging or sagging skin that remains after dramatic weight loss.

Skin reduction is a type of body contouring plastic surgery. It may be performed on different areas of the body, including the abdomen, arms, thighs, breasts, face and lower body. The goal is to create smoother contours and improve the body’s shape after weight loss.

Skin removal surgery is not a weight-loss procedure. Most patients lose only a small amount of weight from removing excess skin and fatty tissue. The amount varies from person to person and depends on how much extra skin is removed. The primary goal is to improve body shape, comfort and function rather than reduce body weight.

A board-certified plastic surgeon performs skin reduction as a surgical procedure. During the procedure, the surgeon removes excess skin and fatty tissue and, in some cases, a small amount of remaining tissue stretched by weight gain and weight loss.

The surgeon makes incisions in the treatment area and removes excess skin. The underlying tissue may be tightened to improve support and create smoother contours. The remaining skin is then repositioned and closed with sutures.

Alternative names

Body contouring; Body contouring procedure; Body contouring surgery; Excess skin removal; Excess skin removal surgery; Loose skin removal; Post-weight-loss plastic surgery; Reconstructive surgery after weight loss; Skin removal surgery

Types of skin reduction surgery

Skin reduction can be performed on one area or multiple areas of the body. Common procedures include:

• Arm lift
• Breast surgery, such as breast lift or breast augmentation
• Eyelid surgery for loose skin around the eyes
• Fat transfer procedures to restore volume in some areas
• Lower body lift
• Thigh lift
• Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
• Facelift

The length and complexity of surgery depend on the amount of excess skin and the treatment areas.

Nonsurgical skin reduction options

Several nonsurgical skin reduction options may help improve mild to moderate sagging skin, though results are usually less dramatic than those of surgery. These treatments include:

• Radiofrequency skin treatments
• Ultrasound-based skin tightening
• Laser skin treatments
• Microneedling with radiofrequency
• Strength training to improve muscle tone beneath the skin

Before the procedure

Your plastic surgeon will review your medical history, perform a physical examination and discuss your goals. Patients are usually advised to maintain a stable weight before surgery.

Preoperative testing may include:

• Blood tests
• Heart testing, such as an electrocardiogram, when needed
• Imaging studies in certain situations
• Review of medications and supplements
• Urine testing

Your surgeon may also request clearance from your primary care provider or specialists if you have other medical conditions.

Before surgery, you may be asked to:

• Arrange for transportation and help at home during recovery
• Avoid certain medications that increase bleeding risk
• Follow instructions about eating and drinking
• Stop smoking

After the procedure

Recovery varies depending on the surgical procedure and the number of areas treated.

After surgery, patients may experience:

• Bruising
• Mild to moderate discomfort
• Swelling
• Temporary drainage from surgical sites

Compression garments are often worn to support healing and reduce swelling. Most patients can return to light activities within a few weeks, but full recovery may take several months.

Follow-up appointments allow the plastic surgeon to monitor healing and address concerns. Following all postoperative instructions can help improve results and reduce complications.

Potential side effects

Possible side effects and complications include:

• Asymmetry or uneven contours
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Changes in skin sensation, including numbness
• Delayed wound healing
• Fluid buildup beneath the skin
• Infection
• Need for additional surgery
• Pain and discomfort
• Scarring
• Swelling and bruising

Patients who have had massive weight loss or multiple previous surgeries may have a higher risk of certain complications.

Skin irritation caused by loose skin often improves after excess skin removal surgery, but temporary irritation around incision sites may occur during healing.

Outlook

The outlook is positive for most patients. Skin reduction can improve comfort, mobility, hygiene and self-confidence. Many people find it easier to exercise and participate in daily activities after excess skin removal.

Results are typically long-lasting when patients maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. While natural aging may affect the skin over time, body contouring procedures can provide lasting improvements in body shape and smoother contours.

Patients who work closely with a board-certified plastic surgeon and follow recovery instructions often achieve the best outcomes. Skin reduction can be an important step in completing the journey after significant weight loss and helping patients feel more comfortable in their bodies.

This entry was written by Jennifer Cruz-Urbano, marketing specialist, and reviewed for accuracy by Bruce Mast, MD, FACS. Generative AI was leveraged as part of the content creation process.