Post-GLP-1, Now What? How to Prepare for a Skin Removal Surgery

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GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have rapidly grown in popularity for their effectiveness in treating type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss. For many people, these medications have led to life-changing transformations, helping them shed significant pounds, improve health markers, and regain confidence.

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But while the weight loss journey can be empowering, the next phase often brings a new challenge: excess or sagging skin. That’s where skin removal surgery becomes a key consideration for many post-GLP-1 patients.

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Let’s walk through why skin removal might be needed, when to consider it, and how to start preparing for your consultation, especially with support from the Bliss Concierge Team.

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Why Skin Removal Surgery May Be Necessary After GLP-1 Use 

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After significant weight loss, especially rapid loss due to GLP-1s, skin that was once stretched may not fully bounce back. This can lead to loose, hanging skin that’s not only aesthetically frustrating but may also interfere with comfort, clothing, hygiene, and exercise.

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That being said, here are some of the most common areas where excess skin appears and the surgeries that can address those concerns:

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• Abdomen: Sagging stomach skin or an overhanging "apron" can be removed through a Tummy Tuck, which also tightens underlying muscles.
• Arms: Often referred to as “bat wings,” loose upper arm skin can be corrected with an Arm Lift.
• Thighs: The inner and outer thighs may have hanging skin that’s best addressed with a Thigh Lift.
• Breasts: Volume loss and sagging can be treated with a Breast Lift, with or without implants.
• Face and Neck: Rapid fat loss can age the face quickly, leading to sagging cheeks or jowls. A Facelift can restore a firmer, more youthful look.

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For many patients, combining two or more procedures in a single surgical plan creates a full-body transformation, often referred to as a body lift or post-weight loss reconstruction.

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When to Consider Skin Removal Surgery

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It’s important to remember that timing is everything. Even if you’re eager to address sagging skin, your plastic surgeon may advise you to wait, and for good reason.

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Here’s what matters:

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• Stable Weight: You should be at or near your goal weight and have maintained it for at least 3 to 6 months. This helps ensure long-term results and reduces surgical risks.
• Muscle Mass: Muscle retention supports skin structure. The more tone you have, the better your results may be.
• Skin Elasticity: Everyone’s skin bounces back differently based on genetics, age, and how long the skin was stretched.
• Age and Health: Younger patients tend to have better skin retraction, while older individuals may need more comprehensive correction.

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When a surgeon may say “not yet” for surgery:

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• If your weight is still fluctuating
• If you haven’t finished GLP-1 therapy
• If your skin hasn’t finished contracting naturally
• If your health needs to be optimized first
• Among more unique considerations

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Being patient allows your body time to adjust and helps ensure the safest, most satisfying outcome.

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Preparing for Your Skin Removal Consultation

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When you're ready, schedule an initial consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Here's how to make the most of it:

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What To Bring

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• List your GLP-1 prescription history and weight loss milestones.
• Mention any applicable medical records or lab results.
• Have a collection of questions or concerns on hand.
• Bring photos that can help express your goals.

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What Your Surgeon Will Assess

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• Skin laxity in all areas of concern.
• Overall health, which includes BMI, medications, and lifestyle.
• Your specific goals. 

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Be prepared to talk about recovery time, scarring, expense, and whether the procedures will be staged or combined.

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Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

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• Am I a good candidate for surgery right now?
• Should I consider combining multiple procedures?
• What kind of scarring should I expect?
• What will recovery look like?
• How long will the results last?
• What can I do to prepare physically and mentally?

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How Bliss Can Help You Prepare

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Navigating the next phase of your journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Bliss can match you with a surgeon who specializes in helping post-GLP-1 patients understand their options and feel supported every step of the way. Here’s how we can move forward: 

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• We match you with board-certified plastic surgeons experienced in skin removal after weight loss.
• We help you prepare for consultations, organize medical paperwork, and know what to ask.
• We offer guidance from your dedicated Bliss Care Advisor throughout your journey.
• We assist with recovery planning and post-op needs.

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Get the Support You Deserve With Bliss

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Skin removal surgery can help you feel even more confident in your body, allowing your transformation to truly shine through. Create a Bliss profile to get matched with a surgeon today.