Skip to content Have you recently lost a significant amount of weight, become a parent, or noticed your skin sagging due to the effects of ageing? These are common concerns affecting both men and women, especially when someone has undergone significant body changes. It can get frustrating, after all your efforts of getting things into shape, excess skin just feels like a bitter reminder of the past.
However, here’s the good news: one can get rid of loose skin. Whether through natural cures, non-surgical skin-tightening procedures, or surgery, there are numerous ways to restore the skin to its original shape.
In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to get rid of loose skin, why it happens, and what truly works, based on trusted research and expert-backed solutions.
Before we discuss how to tighten loose skin, let’s look at the reasons why this occurs
Quite simply, with rapid weight loss (more than 2 pounds per week), your skin can struggle to shrink in tandem with fat loss. Depending on the severity of the weight loss, the skin may take months to recover and can sometimes not recover without assistance.
Pregnancy tends to stretch the skin, especially in the abdominal and breast areas. After getting back to your pre-pregnancy weight, some women can regain their shape in a matter of weeks; others can take many months to recover; and some may never recover from their loose skin from pregnancy.
As we age, we lose collagen and elastin, the two proteins that help keep skin firm. This can result in sagging skin and wrinkles.
Most of us are aware that UV rays and smoking break down collagen in the skin, and the breakdown of this collagen can lead to skin that is more prone to sagging.
Let’s start with non-invasive and at-home strategies to strengthen loose skin.
To help skin tightening from the inside, make sure to consume foods that contain:
Tip: Collagen supplements can help restore lost skin architecture over time.
Gaining muscle may fill in some of the volume underneath your skin to make the appearance of loose skin less prominent, especially in the arms, legs, and buttocks.
Strength training options include:
Note – Regular exercise may also improve blood flow and skin tone.
Some over-the-counter skin care products contain:
All of these may help, over time, tighten loose skin, especially when used in conjunction with a good skin care routine.
Staying hydrated means healthier skin, and healthier skin is more elastic. If your skin is hydrated, it may diminish sagging. Drink enough water and use moisturisers regularly.
Using a natural bristle brush to lightly exfoliate your skin may help with blood circulation and stimulate collagen. Using your own massage oil, like coconut or almond oil, may also be effective and feel nice.
After losing weight, many individuals struggle with loose skin, primarily in the belly, arms, thighs and face. While surgery is an option, it is not the only option. Non-surgical treatment can tighten skin by stimulating collagen and improving the texture. Below, we will explore the most effective and gentle non-surgical treatment available today.
Radiofrequency stimulates collagen and elastin in the deeper layers of skin with carefully controlled heat. It tightens loose skin and improves the texture of your skin over time. RF skin tightening is safe for a wide variety of areas, including the abdomen, inner arms, face, and neck.
It is a non-invasive form of body contouring that requires no recovery time, and results improve with multiple sessions. Common RF-based procedures include FaceTite and Morpheus8.
Ultrasound skin tightening (made popular by Ultherapy) uses sound waves to tighten sagging skin by reaching the deeper layers of tissue. The neck, face, and chest area respond the best, but can also be useful on loose skin in other areas. Ulthermoya treatment is usually a one-time procedure, with results that build over the subsequent 2-6 months.
The ultrasonic patches on your skin may feel warm and just slightly tingly, but there is no need for recovery time at all, and you will be able to see subtle, natural-looking skin tightening.
Laser devices (like Fraxel or UltraClear) use light energy to heat the tissue layers while stimulating collagen at the same time. Laser skin tightening benefits include improving fine lines and wrinkles, loose skin, and skin texture.
It can be used on the face, stomach and hands and requires minimal pain or recovery time. You can expect to see some results by 2-3 treatments, and skin improvement could continue for a number of months while your skin rebuilds collagen.
RF microneedling utilises very small needles along with radiofrequency to stimulate your body’s natural collagen repair process. RF microneedling is a non-invasive procedure, and it helps with skin laxity, improving the appearance of stretch marks, tightening and firming skin (especially on the face and neck). You will typically require 3–4 appointments spaced a month apart for optimal results. This is safe for all skin colours.
Cryolipolysis, also known as CoolSculpting, is a procedure that utilises the application of freezing temperature to destroy stubborn pockets of fat under the skin. True, it is primarily a fat-reduction procedure, but it can also tighten the skin a little bit in the treated areas, like the tummy or thighs.
The procedure is non-invasive and requires no downtime, with each treatment lasting 30–60 minutes. Results will show more effectively after 1–3 months, particularly if you are incorporating exercise and hydration into your lifestyle.
Thread lifts use dissolvable threads inserted under the skin to gently lift mild to moderate sagging skin areas. As the threads dissolve, they encourage collagen to form, paying it forward for more sustained firmness. This is a quick outpatient procedure and works well for jawlines, cheeks and necks.
There is minimal downtime and recovery, and results last 1-2 years. It is a great alternative to surgery if you are looking for a lift.
If you’ve lost a significant amount of weight—especially over 100 pounds—non-surgical treatments may not be enough. In such cases, surgical procedures are the most effective way to remove excess skin and reshape your body. These surgeries offer dramatic results but do involve recovery time, scars, and some risks. Common options include:
A body lift reduces excess skin from the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks. This procedure is best for those who have lost massive amounts of weight and are looking to reshape their lower body completely. The procedure will reshape the body, but you will be recovering for a few weeks afterwards.
A tummy tuck will take away sagging skin around the belly and tighten your abdominal wall. You will end up with a flatter, firmer stomach for the first time ever after having children. The recovery process will take about 2-4 weeks after surgery, and the scars will be low on the abdomen so that they will not be visible when wearing clothes.
An arm lift will remove the excess skin and fat from the upper arms and reduce the appearance of “bat wing” arms that may have formed after weight loss. The upper arms will have a more toned appearance. The recovery process should take about 1-2 weeks after surgery.
A thigh lift will take away the excess skin on the inner or outer thighs while maintaining your leg’s shape and comfort level, especially after weight loss. The recovery period normally takes about 2-3 weeks after surgery.
Raises sagging breasts and removes extra skin. This surgery reshapes the breast without implants (unless desired). Ideal for post-weight-loss or post-pregnancy changes.
Targets the lower back, buttocks, and outer thighs. It’s often combined with a tummy tuck for full lower-body transformation. Improves both look and function.
Removes loose skin from the chest, back, and underarms. Commonly done after massive weight loss, especially when there’s excess skin around the bra line or upper back.
Learning how to get rid of loose skin is not just about quick fixes but also about adopting sustainable habits and choosing the right treatments for your body. Whether you want to get rid of loose skin after weight loss or explore natural remedies, consistency, patience, and a healthy lifestyle will lead to the best results.
Everyone’s skin is different, and no “one-size-fits-all” solution exists. So, don’t get discouraged. With the right approach, you can tighten loose skin and feel confident in your body again.
And if you’re struggling with areas of stubborn fat that resist all efforts, it’s worth exploring advanced options that specifically target stubborn fat and support skin tightening simultaneously.
1. How long does it take to tighten loose skin after weight loss?
It depends on age, skin quality, and weight loss, but generally, it can take several months to a year with consistent skincare, exercise, and hydration.
2. Can loose skin go away without surgery?
Yes, mild to moderate loose skin can improve with strength training, collagen-boosting foods, and non-invasive treatments like radiofrequency therapy.
3. What’s the best treatment for loose skin on the stomach?
A combination of core exercises, skin-firming creams, and professional treatments like ultrasound therapy or laser tightening works best for stomach skin.
4. Does drinking water help tighten loose skin?
Yes, staying well-hydrated helps improve skin elasticity, making it easier for the body to get rid of loose skin naturally.
5. Is it possible to get rid of excess skin after extreme weight loss?
In many cases, though, severe sagging may require surgical options like a tummy tuck or body lift to completely remove excess skin.
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Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Gorman is a consultant plastic surgeon and department lead at Salford Royal, specialising in facial plastics and complex reconstructive procedures. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including oculoplastic, nasal, ear, abdominal, and microsurgical reconstruction, with particular focus on breast, head and neck, and lower limb reconstruction.
With a non-surgical and surgical skillet, Dr. Gorman is known for using advanced techniques to achieve natural, harmonious results. His approach often integrates dermal fillers and fat transfer to enhance facial features in combination with a range of deep plane facelifts.
Beyond facial aesthetics, his specialties include high-definition liposuction, allowing for precise body contouring.
Dr. Gorman’s approach to plastic surgery is rooted in skill, combining technical precision with a deep understanding of aesthetics to achieve refined and personalised outcomes for each patient.Dr.Gorman is a key opinion leader (KOL) for major UK aesthetic companies, also has taught at BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), bringing his expertise to the next generation of surgeons.
Additionally, he runs his own aesthetic training company, further extending his influence in the field.Dedicated to total well-being, Dr. Gorman created the Look Body Mind philosophy, which blends aesthetics and wellness for a holistic approach to beauty.Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or comprehensive reconstructive work, Dr. Gorman’s patient-centered care, grounded in precision, skill and an exceptional aesthetic eye, ensures that you will feel confident throughout your journey.
Administrator
Sophie brings over a decade of customer service expertise to her role as Receptionist at Yorkshire Skin Centre. With a strong foundation in retail management and the travel industry, she is recognised for her warm, approachable manner and professional attitude—ensuring every client feels welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive.
Highly organised and calm under pressure, Sophie thrives in fast-paced environments and seamlessly manages a wide range of front-of-house responsibilities.
As the first point of contact for many clients, she plays a vital role in maintaining the clinic’s high standards of service and creating a smooth, reassuring experience for all visitors.
Beyond her professional skills, Sophie brings a vibrant energy to the team. She has a passion for travel, fashion, and music, and is currently learning both Spanish and Arabic. Her dedication to personal growth, combined with her friendly and proactive approach, makes her an indispensable part of our team.
Senior Surgical Sister(RN)
Herezel McCourt is a highly experienced Registered Nurse at Yorkshire Skin Centre, bringing over two decades of clinical expertise across diverse surgical and medical specialties. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Perioperative Practice from Huddersfield University, UK, and a BSc in Nursing from Cebu Doctors’ University in the Philippines.
Herezel has spent the majority of her career within the NHS, most recently as a Clinical Specialist in Ophthalmic Surgery at The MidYorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.
Her extensive background includes roles in operating theatres, anaesthetic care, ENT, urology, plastics, maxillofacial, orthopaedic, and podiatric nursing, among others.
Renowned for her professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care, Herezel is also a trained mentor, assessor, and ANTT trainer. She has led initiatives in recruitment, risk assessment, SOP development, and patient care pathway planning. Her leadership credentials are strengthened by a Level 3 Award in First Line Management and a strong commitment to staff development and peer support.
Herezel is a calm and supportive presence to both patients and colleagues, and her attention to clinical excellence makes her an invaluable member of the Yorkshire Skin Centre team.
Clinical Assistant
Rhea Levitt is a highly experienced Clinical Assistant at Yorkshire Skin Centre, known for her hands-on approach, warm personality, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. With a solid background in healthcare settings, Rhea brings valuable clinical expertise and administrative support to the team.
Her wide-ranging experience includes phlebotomy, wound care, ECGs, diabetic foot checks, B12 injections, and assisting in minor surgical procedures. She is also skilled in patient health monitoring, spirometry, and providing support during clinics such as coil fittings and cancer care.
Rhea’s well-rounded clinical knowledge is matched by her excellent organisational skills and a calm, compassionate approach to patient wellbeing.
In addition to her clinical duties, Rhea supports the practice by carrying out internal audits and ensuring best practices are upheld throughout the clinic. She plays a key role in maintaining smooth day-to-day operations and upholding the high standards that Yorkshire Skin Centre is known for.
Dedicated, professional, and always ready to help, Rhea is an invaluable member of the team who helps ensure that every patient receives attentive, safe, and seamless care.
Administrator
Raman holds a Bachelor of Science with Bachelor of Education (BSc, BEd) from India, a qualification that integrates scientific studies and teaching education, equipping her with a strong foundation in both fields. She is currently building her career in the UK healthcare industry, bringing her hardworking, compassionate, and friendly nature to the team.
With valuable experience in customer service and patient care, Raman plays a key role in managing day-to-day operations, handling bookings, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all patients.
Her dedication to excellence and passion for healthcare and client well-being make her an integral part of our team.
Practitioner
Nichola is a highly skilled practitioner with a strong background in beauty and holistic therapies. She earned her Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification with distinction from the Yorkshire College of Beauty and further enhanced her expertise with Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO-certified, an internationally recognized gold standard in beauty and spa therapy, ensuring clients receive the highest level of care and treatments.
With 18 years of customer service experience, primarily in the hospitality industry, Nichola deeply understands the importance of building strong client relationships. She is known for her hardworking nature, punctuality, and dedication to continuous learning.
Passionate about skincare and wellness, Nichola is committed to expanding her expertise in a leading skin clinic. She believes that the knowledge and experience she gains will be invaluable in delivering the highest standard of care to her clients.
“ Your journey to skin perfection starts here. Leave your details, and our expert team will be in touch shortly.”
Aesthetic Doctor
Expert Practitioner
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty. He is nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics and a skilled trainer up..Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Clinic Director
Patient Care Coordinator
Founder and Medical Director
Dr Raj is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. With a successful career in aesthetics and a passion for patient care, Dr. Raj found that his expertise in facial aesthetics was a natural progression where he could showcase his warm and friendly demeanour alongside his exceptional skills.
Dr Raj specialises in advanced facial aesthetics, offering a wide range of treatments and skin procedures. With his extensive training and experience in both medical and aesthetic fields, he brings a unique perspective to delivering exceptional results.
Driven by his passion for patient satisfaction, Dr Raj established the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. Located in a comfortable and welcoming environment, the clinic provides a luxurious and refined setting for patients seeking aesthetic treatments…. Read More
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Patient Representative
Hi, I’m Sarah Coates. I’m a Senior Change Manager, Hogan accredited coach, proud mum of 2 beautiful boys and am blessed with incredible friends to get into mischief with!
As I headed towards my 40th birthday, my life changed in a way that I could never have imagined and I came off that roller coaster with a new lease of life, with an understanding of the importance of self care and a huge amount of gratitude.
I love to travel, have a passion for interior design and enjoy sharing all that life has to offer with my beautiful family and fabulous friends.
If I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing at the park with my boys, enjoying the sun in Ibiza, listening to music or at the bar with a glass of fizz!
Patient Representative
Patient Representative
I am Senior Manager currently working for a small charity based in Leeds. My role is both professionally stimulating and challenging. No two days are ever the same. It includes aspects of advocacy, client rights, individual representation and inclusivity.
One milestone that resonates deeply is the creation of support groups, safe spaces where clients can openly share their stories. Witnessing the impact of these connections has fuelled my determination to improve the journey of others.
Through my own aesthetic endeavours , I’ve developed an unparalleled understanding of the emotional nuances tied to cosmetic treatments. This empathy allows me to offer sincere reassurance and guidance, especially during moments of vulnerability, in an era of aesthetic care that marries technical expertise with genuine human understanding and a person centred approach.
In my spare time I love the outdoors, enjoying hillwalking, taking part in sport, managing my bountiful allotment, and enhancing my cookery skills trying different cuisines (..no Masterchef yet).. and travel.
Consultant and General Surgeon
Dr. Khan earned her MD from Copenhagen University in 2003 and boasts over 20 years of medical expertise. Her early career was dedicated to dermatology and gynaecology across Yorkshire, and in 2011, she became a qualified GP from The Royal College of General Practitioners in London.
Dr. Khan’s commitment to women’s health is evident through her achievements. In 2012, she earned a Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Sales Administrator
Excellent 470+ Reviews
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Independent Nurse Prescriber
Alana embarked on a career in nursing in 2008, following her comprehensive training and graduation. Since then, she has accrued a wealth of experience working in a variety of roles within both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Known for her dedication and exceptional skills, Alana rapidly ascended into management, and for the past seven years, has been serving as a matron.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained her clinical competencies and academic studies. She initially earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, later advancing her studies to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber. Her commitment to continuous professional development led to the completion of her full Master’s degree.
Alana’s passion for skin spurred her to further specialise in this field. In 2017, she pursued training in facial aesthetics, a decision that marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her career. Since then, she has been affiliated with several leading skin clinics across the UK, where she has honed her expertise and built a reputation for excellence. Her extensive knowledge and experience in skin led her to become an expert medical trainer and since 2021, Alana has been imparting her knowledge at an award-winning training academy. Previously, she held the prestigious position of National Trainer for SKN Clinics, where she educated a variety of medical professionals, including plastic surgeons.
While Alana enjoys all aspects of skin, she has a particular fondness for medical-grade skin care, which she believes offers unparalleled benefits to patients. Her dedication to patient care and her professional knowledge and skills, make her a standout figure in this field. Through her work, Alana has positively impacted numerous lives, helping patients achieve their best skin health and aesthetic goals. In her trainer role, Alana is known for her meticulous approach and her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner, ensuring that her trainees are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care. Her leadership and mentorship have been crucial in elevating the standards of practice within the industry.
Alana’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing and aesthetics. Her professional journey reflects a blend of clinical expertise, academic achievement, and a genuine passion for improving patient care. As she continues to advance her career, Alana remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field, continually enhancing her skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to her patients and to train the next generation of skin care professionals.
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos specialises in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. He graduated from the University of Athens Medical in 2009 and completed his basic surgical training in Liverpool. After earning a PhD with honours in DIEP clinical anatomy research in 2013, he completed advanced surgical training in plastic surgery across Yorkshire and Liverpool, including a cosmetic fellowship in the North West.
Mr Lymperopoulos further honed his expertise with two prestigious breast reconstruction microsurgical fellowships at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals in London. His extensive experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy provides a profound understanding of surgical anatomy and aesthetics, benefiting procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift. Additionally, he is highly skilled in abdominoplasty, often enhanced with liposuction or muscle repair, especially post-pregnancy.
Specialising in skin cancer treatment, he adeptly handles Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. He offers a comprehensive range of breast and body cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer, breast reduction, uplift, tummy tucks, and liposuction. Combined procedures, such as “mommy makeovers,” are also available to restore post-pregnancy body contours.
Trained in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Mr Lymperopoulos performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), as well as toxin and filler injections. Currently, he serves as a Consultant at Mid Yorkshire Teaching Hospitals, specialising in breast reconstruction and skin cancer surgery, and holds an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at the University of Leeds.
An advocate for education and research, Mr Lymperopoulos has over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and a PhD in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As an Education Lead, he developed “The Yorkshire FRCS (Plast) Course” to aid UK trainees in their exit exams. His innovative training simulator was awarded first place in Innovation at the BAPRAS meeting in 2021.
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:
Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.
Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.
Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.
Types of Blepharoplasty:
Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.
Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.
Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.
Consultant Ophthalmologist & Oculoplastic Surgeon
Mr Jeeva is celebrated for his mastery in aesthetic eyelid surgery. By adopting a patient-centric ethos, he delivers personalised treatments that amplify natural beauty and revive youthful vitality.
He has completed a prestigious fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons, specialising in cosmetic plastic surgery. This rigorous training has endowed him with advanced techniques in aesthetic surgery, ensuring outcomes that are both beautiful and natural.
With a specialised fellowship in oculoplastic surgery, Mr Jeeva has honed his skills in delicate eyelid surgeries, tear duct disorders… Read More
