Ok I know this is probably a silly question and is different for everyone. My sister had weight loss surgery and had 40k in plastic surgery to lift and remove skin. Is there a way to lose weight without having all the excess skin? I am 30 and have always been overweight.

People that I've seen that lose weight slowly and exercise don't really have excess skin. I think the skin is more for people that lose too fast, which I see a lot with people that get the surgery.

There is a pretty expansive "skin" discussion and sticky thread in the body issues and weight loss portion of the forum, down under maintainers I think.
Emily

Sadly most of us who have a lot to lose even if it's done slowly will usually have SOME skin issues. The degree in which it's an issue varies by person.

I'm already noticing issues on my end and I still have a way to go.

I hear it does improve a bit by a year out, so its basically a wait and see game.

Yeah, I've got skin issues, and many many maintainers do. But I don't think it helps to freak out about it yet! I am so much happier being 120 pounds lighter with some skin than I was at nearly 300 pounds!

Here's the thread that talks about skin issues! It's a good one!
http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/showthread.php?t=36040

I totally agree with Heather. I lost weight slowly, and exercised, and I have a LOT of excess skin. Mind you, I didn't start my weight loss journey until I was 41, so my skin wasn't as elastic as yours may be.

I would DEFINITELY prefer to be the weight I am now, and have the excess skin, which I can cover with beautiful clothes, than be 350+ pounds and try to cover the rolls with extremely unflattering clothes.

My suggestion is always... "Lose the weight first, doing the best you can, and worry about the skin later."

Take care,

Zelma

I am still on the loosing end rather then someone who has lost..but I know people on both ends. One had the surgery and she said the weight came off fast and she didnt evercise so she is gettng the surgery when she reaches her goal. Another lady lost 115 lbs and she said she has some skin issues but as she does more "toneing" workouts its getting better.

Unfortunately, excess skin cannot be exercised away. Weight lifting can build muscle that can help "fill out" the extra skin, but doesn't make the excess skin disappear.

BTW: I recommend checking out the Body Image and Issues After Weight Loss http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=219 for several threads on skin concerns!
(Including the sticky that Heather posted a link to!)

Heather,
Thanks for posting this link. The extra skin isn't something I can think about very
much for fear of being discouraged.
I do know, that my pcp will work with me on getting the surgery when the time comes.

thanks for the links, great info. I think I'll invest in some really good shapewear.