October 25th, 2024 — by Dina Eliopoulos
In the era of semaglutide injections like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Rybelsus®, these weight loss solutions have gained incredible popularity for their speed in helping you shed unwanted pounds. However, while the prospect of rapid weight loss can be exciting, it’s essential to discuss a significant side effect that often goes unspoken: the excess skin left behind after such a dramatic body transformation.
Loose skin can cause not only physical discomfort but also emotional distress, affecting your body image even after you’ve reached your weight loss goal. This is when skin removal surgery becomes an option worth considering. Let’s explore the realities of excess skin following weight loss in the era of semaglutide injections, the benefits of excess skin removal surgery, and what to expect from the procedure.
For many people, it can be confusing why skin stretches so much during weight gain but doesn’t ‘bounce back’ after rapid weight loss. To understand the science behind excess skin, it’s important to realize that skin is made up of three layers: the top layer (epidermis), the middle layer (dermis), and the bottom layer (hypodermis). Fat in the hypodermis causes skin to expand during weight gain.
As skin expands, the dermis produces collagen and elastin to maintain that ‘bound back’ effect. However, the body cannot create endless collagen and elastin. If the hypodermis expands far enough for long enough, the dermis can no longer supply the collagen and elastin necessary to ‘bounce back’ after fat shrinks in the hypodermis — leaving you with loose or saggy skin on the body and in the face.
Rapid weight loss from semaglutide use may exacerbate this effect, which has popularized the term ‘Ozempic face.’ Quick fat loss can lead to volume loss and laxity that may increase facial sag. Other factors, such as the duration of obesity, the amount of weight lost, and genetics, also play a role in excess skin. Likewise, the body produces less collagen and elastin with age, which can also cause skin to sag.
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Excess skin can lead to physical discomfort, including rashes, chafing, and difficulties with physical activity. Hanging skin can make exercise challenging or even painful, which can be frustrating after achieving your weight loss goals. For those facing these issues, skin removal surgery can be a practical solution to regain comfort and enhance mobility, allowing you to fully enjoy an active lifestyle again.
Beyond the physical impacts, the emotional toll of excess skin can be just as significant. Many individuals find themselves feeling disheartened by their appearance, despite their weight loss. Dissatisfaction with your body image may linger, affecting your self-esteem. Skin removal surgery offers an opportunity to address these feelings, helping you embrace your new body with confidence.
Skin removal surgery is a cosmetic procedure designed to remove excess skin that often results from significant weight loss.This type of surgery can help improve both physical comfort and body image if semaglutide injections have left you with loose or sagging skin. Here’s an overview of the type of skin removal surgery procedures available at Eliopoulos Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Chelmsford:
Candidates for skin removal surgery are typically near their target weight and have maintained a stable weight for several months. Procedures are appropriate for those looking to improve physical comfort, wear fitted clothing without discomfort, and enhance body contours. If you’ve achieved significant weight loss and are dealing with excess skin, skin removal surgery may be a beneficial option for you.
The journey to weight loss with semaglutide injections can be both empowering and challenging — especially when it comes to the physical aftermath. If you’ve experienced significant weight loss and have been considering skin removal surgery, it’s vital to consult with a certified plastic surgeon, not only to make an informed decision but also to discuss options personalized to your cosmetic goals.
If you’re located in the Chelmsford or Boston, Massachusetts area and want to explore whether skin removal surgery is the right step for you post-weight loss, schedule a consultation at Eliopoulos Plastic Surgery & Med Spa today.
Plastic surgery isn’t just about people changing their look—it's about making you feel good about being you. Whether you need breast augmentation, a breast lift, liposuction or Botox, Dr. Dina Eliopoulos is here for you. For over 20 years, patients have sought out the care and results that Dr. Eliopoulos can create in her beautiful Chelmsford, Massachusetts office. The peace of mind that comes from a board-certified, residency- and fellowship-trained plastic surgeon is hard to parallel. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Eliopoulos today to experience the difference for yourself.
