Ask Jillian Michaels

Battling Baggy Skin

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Q: Jillian, I have excess skin after weight loss. What should I do?

A:

I hear this question all the time. I’ve got good news and bad news. Okay, bad news first: The skin is an organ and not a rubber band — it can only stretch and tighten so much. It has nothing to do with how quickly you lose weight and everything to do with your genetics, weight — and age: The younger you are, the more collagen you have. Collagen is what gives the skin its elasticity and ability to shrink after weight gain or pregnancy.

Ready for the good news? You are no longer unhealthy and obese! Let’s take a look at your score card: You have significantly decreased if not eradicated your chances of getting type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, arthritis, GERD, gout… the list goes on! And, now that you are healthier you should be feeling better both physically and emotionally. I am even willing to bet that your weight loss success is probably motivating others around you to get healthy as well.

Of course, surgery is an obvious option. Cosmetic surgery — known as a tummy tuck — can remedy the situation effectively, but this kind of surgery is costly and painful. My advice would be to lose the weight and keep it off for a year. If there is still loose skin and it really bothers you, then and only then consider a tummy tuck. No matter what, please do not let the thought of some extra skin deter you from losing weight or keeping the weight off — and more important — improving your health!

Get more fitness tips from Jillian Michaels.

Last Updated: 07/23/2009

Often called "TV’s toughest fitness trainer," Jillian Michaels has appeared on the U.S. and Australian versions of The Biggest Loser. Jillian is also the author of three books, Master Your Metabolism, Winning by Losing and Making the Cut, and the creator of the online weight-loss program www.jillianmichaels.com.