If you’ve lost a significant amount of weight with the help of GLP-1s, chances are you’re now dealing with excess skin that no diet or gym session can fix.
The good news? There are surgical options designed specifically to help you reclaim your shape, comfort, and confidence.
Let’s break down what your options are, when to consider surgery, and what to expect along the way.
Skin Removal Procedures to Know
Skin removal isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right procedure depends on your body, your goals, and which areas bother you most.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
This is one of the most common post-weight loss procedures. A tummy tuck removes excess abdominal skin and tightens the underlying muscles, creating a smoother, flatter midsection. For high BMI patients, it can also relieve skin rashes and improve mobility.
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
If you’re dealing with sagging or “batwing” arms, an arm lift can remove the hanging skin from the upper arms and create a firmer, more contoured look. This is a common concern among GLP-1 patients, especially as fat loss tends to be prominent in the arms.
Thigh Lift
Thigh lifts help eliminate excess skin from the inner and outer thighs, improving both appearance and comfort, especially when walking or exercising. This procedure is often life-changing for patients struggling with skin friction or rashes.
Upper Body Lift
This procedure addresses the upper torso, which includes back rolls, bra bulges, and sagging skin around the chest and flanks. An upper body lift is often done in combination with arm lifts or breast procedures for a more comprehensive transformation.
Lower Body Lift
A lower body lift combines a tummy tuck with a thigh and buttock lift to reshape the entire lower torso. This is ideal for patients with major skin laxity all around the waistline.
When Is the Right Time for Skin Removal Surgery After Weight Loss?
Timing matters. While it’s tempting to jump straight into surgery after rapid weight loss, the best outcomes happen when your weight has stabilized for a few months.
Here are signs you may be ready:
- Your weight has been stable for 3 to 6 months
- You’ve completed your GLP-1 medication or reached your goal
- You’re no longer seeing dramatic changes in your body size
- You’re struggling with hygiene, mobility, or skin irritation due to excess skin
- You feel like your body doesn’t reflect your progressOperating before your body is ready can increase risks and reduce the longevity of your results.
What Results You Can Expect (and What You Can’t)
Skin removal surgery after weight loss is about relief, comfort, and confidence. Many patients report:
- Improved comfort in clothing
- Reduced rashes, chafing, and odor
- Greater ease with physical activity
- Better body confidence and posture
That said, it’s important to have realistic expectations. These procedures may leave scars (which fade over time), and they won’t remove all imperfections. But for most high BMI patients, the trade-off is more than worth it.
Why Experience with High BMI Patients Matters
Choosing a surgeon who specializes in skin removal surgery after weight loss—especially for plus-size or formerly plus-size bodies—makes all the difference.
Dr. Nick Masri is double board-certified and experienced in tailoring post-weight loss surgery plans to your unique needs. Whether you’ve used GLP-1 medications or had bariatric surgery, he understands how to approach each area of concern with precision, safety, and aesthetic balance.
Schedule a consultation today.