Losing digits in the scale is the goal of most overweight individuals. Drastic weight loss, however, is only truly rewarding once the individual looks in the mirror and sees a healthier and better-looking self. Popular reality TV show “The Biggest Loser” covers the journey of a select few in battling obesity through rigorous training and a healthy diet. The show’s contestants endure challenges and temptations throughout the series, and amidst those drawbacks, most emerge with their ideal weight.
What the show doesn’t offer, though, is the way to shed the excess skin that’s left after losing all the fat. The extra skin creates unsightly folds and flabs in various parts of the body.
Season 14 contestant Francelina Morillo recounts her dilemma:
“There was no other option for me really. My skin was stretched to the point of no return. No matter how much training I do, skin treatments, wraps — nothing is going to tighten the insane amount of skin I have. I think there are many factors to whether or not you will end up with excess skin after massive weight loss — one of them being genetics — and my skin just hasn’t recovered. Surgery is an important part of my continued success. I have heard many stories where people couldn’t “see” all their progress because of the excess skin, and that inevitably lead to depression and, unfortunately, gaining a lot of it back. I want to set myself up for the best odds.”
Like Francelina, people who have achieved a stable weight can opt to undergo surgery after weight loss, which is recommended—whether the weight loss is a result of natural means (usually dieting and exercise) or of bariatric treatment. Bariatric surgeries restrict food or digestion after natural means have failed. “Lifts” or “tucks” literally lift and tuck excess skin in problem areas such as the tummy, breasts, arms, legs and buttocks through surgical incisions (cuts), removals and sutures (stitching). Of course, all these will be under appropriate anesthesia to minimize the pain.
People who have undergone massive weight loss should consult experts to map out a treatment plan for their bodies.Board Certified doctors guide patients before and during the procedures, and take care of them throughout the recovery period. Premier clinics in Mexico for after weight loss surgery like CosMed are accredited for safety and effectiveness in cosmetic procedures.
(Article Information and Image from Biggest Loser’s’ Francelina Morillo talks Jeff Nichols, skin removal surgery and life after the ranch, Zap2it, January 8, 2014)
