Skin Revival: Mastering the Art of Treating Post-Weight-Loss Loose Skin

Understanding Skin Changes Post Weight Loss

After substantial weight loss, most bariatric patients suffer from loose skin in different locations throughout their body.¹ An observational study on 20 post-bariatric patients revealed that collagen fibres underwent remodeling from thick, organized, structured, and directed fibres to thin, misaligned, loosely arranged fibres². When collagen fibres are altered, the skin becomes shapeless and loses its structural integrity and definition². Prolonged obesity has been shown to damage collagen and elastin fibres in the skin, reducing its ability to contract and compromising elasticity⁶, which suggests the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for skin health. Surgical and non-surgical treatment shave been developed to fortify collagen fibres to reshape and rejuvenate the skin.

Treatments to Enhance Skin Elasticity

Post-bariatric patients have several options to rejuvenate and strengthen their skin, including non-surgical treatments with radio frequency, laser therapy, cryolipolysis, radio-pulse therapy, and ultrasound therapy, all proven effective in skin tightening³. Additionally, a significant portion of these patients, approximately 70%, opt for plastic surgery for their excessive or loose skin⁴. Depending on individual needs and goals, treatment plans may include a skin lift, micro-needling, skin resurfacing, and Kybella injections, each tailored to tighten and rejuvenate the skin effectively.

Westmount Reconstructive Surgery Clinic offers Evolve X. This advanced body contouring method uniquely combines electromagnetic technology, radiofrequency energy, and suction to reduce fat, tighten skin, and tone the muscles in the targeted areas. Each technology plays a specific role: electromagnetic technology stimulates muscle contractions, radiofrequency energy promotes skin tightening, and suction reduces fat. Combining these technologies is a safe and effective way to improve skin health³.

Complementing treatment with Skin Care

Collagen supplementation plays a significant role in skin health. A systematic review and meta-analysis done in 2023highlighted the role of collagen supplementation in skin health; collagen supplementation improved skin tightness and hydration⁵. Collagen supplements provide the skin with the proteins needed to build back healthy skin effectively. The American Academy of Dermatology published skin health guidelines emphasizing a holistic approach. Apply sunscreen to the skin, cease smoking, select skin care products that are specifically suited to your skin type and needs, and avoid harsh scrubbing, which can damage skin and diminish its elasticity. Collectively, these practices contribute to maintaining skin health and improving its elasticity.

Potential Risks

While considering skin treatments post-weight loss, it’s important to be aware of potential risks. These can include difficulties in wound healing, infection risks, bleeding, lymphatic damage causing swelling, nerve damage, anesthesia complications, persistent pain, blood clots like pulmonary embolism, and the possibility of thick or widened scars.

Westmount Reconstructive Surgery Clinic surgeons offer many treatments to boost skin health and elasticity. Our specialized, patient-centered approach provides you with a treatment plan tailored to your skin’s needs. Start your journey today by booking your consultation with a surgeon.

1. Elander A,Biörserud C, Staalesen T, Ockell J, Fagevik Olsén M. Aspects of excess skin in obesity, after weight loss, after body contouring surgery and in a reference population. Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases.2019;15(2):305-311. doi:10.1016/j.soard.2018.10.032
2. Rocha RI, JuniorWC, Modolin MLA, Takahashi GG, Caldini ETEG, Gemperli R. Skin Changes Due to Massive Weight Loss: Histological Changes and the Causes of the Limited Results of Contouring Surgeries. Obes Surg. 2021;31(4):1505-1513.doi:10.1007/S11695-020-05100-3
3. Faulhaber J,Sandhofer M, Weiss C, Sattler G, Sadick NS. Effective noninvasive body contouring by using a combination of cryolipolysis, injection lipolysis, and shock waves. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2019;18(4):1014-1019.doi:10.1111/JOCD.12953
4. Elander A,Biörserud C, Fagevik Olsén M. Excess skin after weight loss following bariatric surgery: focus on the abdomen. Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases.2021;17(5):986-993. doi:10.1016/j.soard.2021.01.005
5. Pu SY;, Huang YL;,Pu CM;, et al. Citation: Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Published online 2023.doi:10.3390/nu15092080
6. Sami K, Elshahat A, Moussa M, Abbas A, Mahmoud A. Image Analyzer Study of the Skin in Patients With Morbid Obesity and Massive Weight Loss. Eplasty.2015;15:e4. Accessed January 17, 2024. /pmc/articles/PMC4311578/