MyFitnessPal discusses factors contributing to loose skin after weight loss and what may help to tighten it up, according to HSS weight management specialist Caroline A. Andrew, MD.

“There isn’t a definite number of pounds that someone has to lose to develop loose skin,” explained Dr. Andrew. “However, there are some factors that may make someone more prone to developing this. Patients that undergo bariatric surgery often see loose skin, especially when we’re talking weight-loss numbers of 100 pounds or more.” Other factors Dr. Andrew cited include genetics, age, history of sun exposure and if the person is a smoker.

Adding resistance training into your regular exercise routine can help. “It’s important to start resistance training early on during your weight-loss journey,” said Dr. Andrew. “Of course, it depends on how much loose skin you have, but resistance training can help the skin look more taut around the muscle. It’s not necessarily changing the skin structure itself, but rather how it looks.”

Dr. Andrew added there are more invasive options like surgery for someone who may experience extreme discomfort (either based on aesthetics or physical issues, like rash or infection). In that case, Dr. Andrew suggested consulting with a doctor or plastic surgeon to talk about removing loose skin for good. “At the end of the day, this is your body,” she said. “For someone who has lost a lot of weight and is concerned about aesthetics, ultimately this type of decision is yours to make.”

Read the full article at Blog.myfitnesspal.com.