I really don't want to resort to surgery- help

[Xtremesteph]

I've been having some recent body issues due to my weight loss. I was always heavy even as a child so i was never actually skinny. I went from 235to 155 and of course everyone tells me how tiny I am now and that I look great but everything has sagged instead of "looking good and tight". My stomach is saggy now, my breasts, thighs and i have no idea how to tighten up now. I've thought about getting a personal trainer or surgery but do you guys have any suggestions or is going under the knife my only choice?

This is really starting to attack me emotionally because i'm almost 30 and i would like to find a life partner soon but i'm worried no guy is going to find me attractive.

[matt_H]

I have the same skin issues and it is a bit depressing. However, I have to keep reminding myself that this problem pales in comparison to the problems being morbidly obese. Secondly, skin will improve over time on its own. It has taken years and years to get to this weight and you can't expect perfect skin right after hitting your goal. Third, unfortunately, there is no product that will help. Lots make that claim, but they are not worth your money. Fourth, reducing your body fat even more will dramatically improve the appearance of lose skin. Fat under the skin results in the "hanging" nature of the skin and the pannus (skin fold around the midsection) often contains fat cells. Lifting weights and gaining muscle while continuing to lose body fat by eating less calories will, in the long run, create better skin appearance.

Even with the above, skin will not be "perfect". But it will be much better. Once a year I'm determined to take photos of my skin issues so I can compare the improvements over time.

[sisypheanme]

I also have some loose skin in my lower abdomen....It has however tightened up with regular walking and toning. I agree with Matt--it pales in comparison with the obesity problem. I wish also there was an easy solution but unfortunately there is not Congrats on your weight loss!

[bargoo]

I agree with Matt and sisy.

[Alicia84]

I'm at the beginning of my weight loss surgery & I'm dreading saggy skin & losing fat from my face.
From what I've read, slow weight loss & strength training are good to avoid both situations, but do you have any other advice for me?

Thanks

[DixC Chix]

I am worried also and I did some research on the subject and I am willing to try anything within reason.

Vitamin C is essential in collagen synthesis and is supported in part by eating leafy green vegetables and bright colored fruit. Vit C beyond the RDA has not been shown to increase the synthesis.

Protein is responsible for the synthesis of collagen and connective tissue. Increased protein from lean sources to a level of 1.5 to 2 grams per kg of body weight has been associated with proper skin repair.

Also electrical stimulation via acupunture therapy may help with initiating the synthesis as well as overall feeling of well-being.

Micronutrients such as iron, copper, zinc, maganese, etc are also needed but are sufficiently addressed with a balanced diet and vit/mineral supplement.

I use an exfoliating moisturizing lotion almost everyday to keep the cell turnover at max.

[suenos096]

You don't mention, but have you ever tried weight training? Weight training works wonders when you are trying to tighten up skin. I've witnessed this a lot on another board that I frequent. It's definitely a weight training is a must focused group.

It seems to work best when it's high intensity interval training.

Good luck!!

Tia
http://journeytosix.blogspot.com/

[xty]

As a person that has lost 100+lbs and have major stretch marks to prove it, I will say I have seen massive skin improvement over time and with a serious focus on adding muscle tone.

I will never have the body of a non-formerly obese person in their 20s, that is life. Even skinny 20 year olds have cellulite.

But I do look damn good in a bikini.

And to ease your dating worries...no man, at ANY weight I have been between 120 and 240 ever ever ever said anything rude about my body. Men like to see boobs, they dont really care if they sag a little...they like real girls not porn stars with fake parts.