slow weight loss versus fast: the skin issue

Tiff posted twice today about her slow, but extremely impressive weight loss.  Newly banded, I was actually hoping to do well, but to take my weight off slowly.  I am well aware of the research stating that slow weight loss tends to be maintained better.  I also familiar with the body having a set-point (or in medical speak, trying to maintain homestatis).  The research shows if you can maintain your weight loss from 3-5 years, your body will eventually learn the new weight as it's desired weight. 

Obviously having started my pre-op prep as a 100 pounds over weight, I am wondering if any one is aware of any research or statistics re: excess skin and need for removal?  I know age, skin type, amount of weight lost, etc. would all have to be factors.  But are you less likely to need excess skin removed if you loose weight slow?  I am assuming when you are easily 100+ pounds you are more likely to need surgery.  Has anyone ran across anything or been told anything by their physician regarding this issue?

good question, I was wondering the same thing.

WOW, thank you!   I started out just shy of 300. My MD would like to see me get down to 150 but feels my body will rebound to 175 give or take. I would be very happy with those numbers.  But that would mean I still have another 60 to go.UGH, that will most likely be another 2 years of diligence. I should get used to it, it's going to be a life time battle.

My MD does feel that my body at this rate will continue to firm up if I continue to do load bearing exercises (walking, running, dancing) and I will continue to lose in regular intervals if I keep up the cardio especially. That would include the running, hiking and biking.

I realize that the skin issues won't be as easy to fix for some folks though. But I have being in my 30's, a non smoker and exercising on my side. Yeah me!  I think even if I wasn't firming up I would still take the sag over being 150lbs over weight any day of the week.

I found this article which was kind of nifty...  http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/5511.html

also  http://www.livestrong.com/article/96932-way-shrink-skin-afte r-losing/

http://www.bizjournals.com/sacramento/stories/2006/04/17/foc us1.html


All of the articles I've looked at are referring to rapid weight loss. None of them address a slow and steady weight loss. HMM... interesting. I'll keep looking for you.

Thanks for the articles and sharing what your physician said.  My skin is not very elastic and being in my early 50's, I best start saving now since I doubt if my insurance covers!  Wondering if there is some way to donate the excess skin to a burn unit?  Of course, there is not one near.

 Hi there! Went to see my Gyn today and she was very impressed!  In the 14 mo since I saw her, I'd lost 90 lbs!  Not only that but she was checking my skin elasticity and said that it was very good and she was impressed that I don't have hanging skin (bat wings).  I was sooo excited!  That got me so excited I doubled my time on the treadmill! yeah!
Lisa

 I'm in my 30's and have lost just about 135 pounds.  I took pictures today in a bra and panties (YIKES) that are pretty graphic but available on my profile if you'd like to see where I'm at with excess skin at this point  (Still shrinking album).  Like Tiff I'm physically active.  I lost my weight over the course of 2 years.  I did have 3 babies over 10 lbs and my elasticity isn't great but I'm at goal.  Hope maybe the pics help some since I don't have any scientific data to throw at you!  :)

Kari

Thanks!  I couldn't look at the photos with the Firefox  browser and had to resort to IE.  You are really, really thin!  My stomach was also very stretched from 2 big babies.  So I am thinking I will be lucky to look that good.

Vickie,
Well I have lost pretty close to 100 lbs am 66 1/2 years old and have exercised by walking on the treadmill, used a recumbent bicycle and lifted weights 3-5 days a week for pretty much the last 3 years.  I'd be lying if I said I didn't need a tummy tuck and I wish something could be done about my underarm "dingle dangle," but at this time of my life, I've got to let it go.  The insurance won't pay.   I am grateful that my triple chins went away and that I can wear smaller clothes.  You won't catch me at the beach, though!

Marti in San Jose

Can't quote studies as can't remember where I read all this!

But I have read quite a lot about it and everything seems to say that speed of loss doesn't have that much effect. it is, as you say, more down to age, genes, time obese etc..

Some people seem lucky! And i guess that is it - luck! I certainly wasn't - folds, flaps and wrinkles everywhere. But at age 59, i will just accept looking horrible unclothed and good clothed!

Kate

I