Those who are extremely obese and take the brave step toward life-changing weight loss—but don’t consult professionals who care about their well-being—may find themselves with yet another burden on their shoulders. Granted, every weight loss journey is different. But there’s one thing nearly everyone agrees on: it’s not easy.
For the majority of those who have faced that mountain and earned the reward of weight loss, there’s another truth—they’ll tell you the loss is just the beginning of a new climb. Whether your weight loss was achieved through gastric bypass, prescribed medication, or your own determination, the end result often includes excess skin. That is real.
This condition disproportionately affects people living in poverty, who may experience it more frequently than their wealthier counterparts.
What Is Body Contouring?
Quick, significant weight loss often causes the skin—which was once tight-fitting and stretched to its limits—to hang. This happens because the skin no longer has the elasticity to snap back into place. The resulting folds can cause discomfort, interfere with physical activity, and lead to rashes or infections. These skin folds can trap moisture and sweat, creating unpleasant odors and hygiene challenges. This condition is sometimes referred to as dermatitis neglecta, as the affected areas can be difficult to clean properly.
Body contouring addresses this issue through surgery that removes excess skin. The procedure typically happens in three stages, all performed under general anesthesia:
Belt lipectomy: The first stage removes loose skin and fat around the waist or “belt line.” The surgeon makes an incision around the lower back and abdomen to remove excess tissue, then sutures the area to smooth and flatten the stomach, lift the buttocks, and tighten the outer thighs.
Upper body lift (months later): This second stage removes excess skin from the upper arms (shoulder to elbow), upper back, and breasts. Women may choose to combine this with a breast lift, reduction, or implants.
Thigh lift (2–3 months later): Finally, the surgeon addresses excess skin on the inner thighs, making incisions along the inside of the legs.
Scarring is an expected outcome of body contouring, but for many people who have undergone major weight loss, the procedure is essential in embracing their new bodies. Planning for this step early—ideally at the beginning of your weight loss journey—is key. And a journey it is.
It’s crucial to discuss your plans with a doctor familiar with the process and the physical and medical outcomes that may arise. Being informed about how your body may respond to the transformation you’re pursuing is essential to long-term success. Early consultation allows you to better prepare, know what to expect, and seek help when necessary. Many hospitals also offer support groups for patients on similar paths, which can provide guidance and community.
All of this contributes to achieving your ultimate goal: improved health and a physical appearance that can dramatically boost self-esteem.
Why Choose a Medical Hospital or Clinic for Body Contouring?
Your health is one of the most important aspects of life. Before entrusting your body to anyone, make sure your surgeon is board-certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery and highly experienced in complex body contouring cases.
Do your research. Know what procedures and technologies are currently in use. For example, if ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) is brought up, ask whether the equipment is FDA-approved and commonly used. UAL uses ultrasonic waves to target fat cells more precisely. It can be especially effective for patients who have previously had liposuction or who have fibrotic fat—but what if that’s not your situation? You need to know what’s right for your body—what you need, what you don’t, and when and why.
You only have one body. Take care of it—and work with a team of doctors who offer a continuum of care. That commitment and expertise can make all the difference in a successful body contouring journey.