Cosmetic Surgical Treatment for Excess Skin

It should come as no surprise that the body can change shape over time. The body goes through a tremendous amount of change as a result of the aging process, pregnancy, and weight gain. As we age or gain weight, skin that was once firm and tight becomes loose, flabby, or wrinkled. The end result is that the body may look aged, tired, out of shape, or simply worn out.

The plastic surgeons at Jefferson Plastic Surgery see a sizeable number of patients who have decided to take matters into their own hands by seeking treatment for excess skin. There are several cosmetic procedures that can help remove excess skin from the body, depending upon the location and amount of excess skin.

What Causes Excess Skin on the Body?

The two most common causes for excess skin on the body are loss of collagen due to the natural aging process (particularly in the facial and neck areas) or rapid, dramatic weight loss. Collagen is a natural protein found in the body. It is the glue that holds the connective tissue together. As the face ages, it loses collagen. This can result in lines and wrinkles around the mouth and forehead or a hollowed, gaunt look. It may also result in jowls or a double chin.

Rapid, dramatic weight loss can result in excess skin on the arms, stomach, and thighs. The skin may become overstretched before weight loss, so it will not automatically shrink to accommodate the new body shape. Instead, there will be excess loose, flabby skin. Additionally, a dramatic change in weight can also result in what are known as “stretch marks,” or striations in the overstretched skin. Stretch marks are often seen on the stomach and breasts of women who have been pregnant.

Treatment of Excess Skin

Face and Neck

There are two ways to treat excess skin around the face and neck. If the major problem is lines and wrinkles, these can be treated with dermal filler injections at the trouble spots. This is a very simple procedure that can be done right at the office. The procedure generally takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the amount of work to be done. Patients can resume normal activities almost immediately, and there will be minimal swelling or bruising at the injection sites.

If there is more extensive, sagging facial skin, such as jowls or a double chin, these can be treated with a face lift. This procedure uses incisions around the area to be tightened. The excess skin and underlying tissue are then lifted up, tightened, and then sutured back into place.

Body Contouring

This can involve almost any part of the body, including arms, stomach, and thighs. This treatment works similarly to the facelift procedure in that the skin in the affected area is tightened and excess skin is removed. In essence, removing excess skin from the body can be thought of as either a way to retain a more youthful appearance or the final, finishing touch on a sensible weight loss program.

To schedule a consultation, contact Jefferson Plastic Surgery today.