Sagging skin can be the result of rapid weight loss or weight loss surgery, when your skin does not have time to gradually adjust to your changing weight. It can also occur with aging when your skin loses elasticity. Sagging skin can be embarrassing and also be a health issue because it can be difficult to clean between and under folds of skin. This can sometimes result in an infection. Medical procedures are available to help tighten and reduce sagging skin. Talk to your doctor about which procedure is best for your situation.
Abdominoplasty
Also known as a tummy tuck, an abdominoplasty procedure removes excess fat and skin from the abdomen and stomach area. Liposuction may be necessary first in order to remove large amounts of fat. General anesthesia is used in this procedure, and afterward your abdomen may be slimmer and tighter. Pain and swelling can occur, but these are treated with medication.
Thighplasty
A thighplasty is done to specifically tighten the inner or outer thigh. It improves a saggy or flabby appearance and is typically an outpatient procedure. According to Cedars-Sinai, a surgeon performs a thighplasty by removing a small amount of skin and pulling and lifting the rest of your skin in the thigh area. Your skin is then stitched closed to make sure there is no sagging after your incisions heal. Mild pain and discomfort can occur after the surgery, but it is mostly relieved with medications. You can resume normal activities within four to six months.
Rhytidectomy
A rhytidectomy, also referred to as a facelift, tightens sagging skin in the face and neck area. Local or general anesthesia can be used. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a facelift is performed by making incisions behind your earlobe and above your hairline. Your surgeon may make this one continuous cut. He will then remove any fat tissue and move your loose skin up, closing the incisions with stitches. Facelifts are effective but can result in asymmetry of the face and scarring. Bruising and swelling may be present for 10 to 14 days after the procedure.
Skin Tightening
Skin tightening is a non-invasive technique that uses a device such as a laser, pulsed infrared light or radiofrequency to repeatedly pass heat into the skin. Skin Care Physicians states that the heat tightens tissues and signals new collagen production to tighten skin. This method can be used on loose skin on the forehead, cheeks, neck, abdomen, buttocks, arms and thighs. The results are not drastic, such as with a facelift, but are modest and noticeable. You may notice some improvement after the first session, but multiple sessions may be necessary. Results last for about one year.
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