I've Lost A LOT Of Weight, Some Loose Skin - Now What?

Here's the deal, I'm 20 years old, 5'10, 180lbs, aka very happy right now. When I was younger, about 15 or so, going in to 9th grade, I was over 260 pounds.





Between different things I've heard; about natural skin elasticity stopping at a certain point, and surgery being the only answer, I don't know what to do.





I'm realistic, I eat healthily, and now I'm in it for the long haul... How long does it take to get a six pack? What are the best exercises in order to do it, I use the ball for my core 4-5 days a week. I don't do a lot of cardio. I do a five minute warmup before I start my workout, thats it. Should I get on that?





If anyone wants to answer any particular aspect of my scenario, please feel free to... Thanks, Justin!

I've Lost A LOT Of Weight, Some Loose Skin - Now What?
Congratulations on losing the weight!





Like a previous person said, if you have been working out, the 6-pack is in there, it's just covered in subcutaneous fat. I'd suggest making cardio a regular part of your regular exercise routine, to burn more fat. Do steady cardio exercise like walking/hiking, running or cycling (or even organized sports like soccer or racket sports) for at least 30-45 minutes to get into the fat-burning state. Keep doing the weight training as well.





You're right about the skin elasticity only going so far. Being young also helps. Unfortunately, if you end up a healthy weight and fat percentage, and still have lose skin you can't get rid of, plastic surgery may be the only option. I'd suggest giving it a few more years to see how things go, though. Surgery is never without risks.
Reply:for getting rid of your loose skin...... I would suggest some plastic surgery tuck stuff if it is extreme but first you should look it up and go to a doctor and review your possibilities.
Reply:Wow, first off let me congratulate you! %26gt;applause%26lt;


I can only wish I have your determination %26amp; discipline.


However, surgery IS the only way to remove excess skin, especially after a dramatic weight loss.
Reply:You are right that surgery is the only option.





As for the 6 pack, it has very little to do with core exercises. You already have a 6 pack, it is just covered by body fat. The general rule is that you need to acheive a 6% to 8% body fat level in order for the ab muscles to show through.
Reply:How did you lose the weight? let me kno, i need to lose like 30lbs.
Reply:in this situation surgical option seems the best -and the quickest- way. especially for your abdomen, breasts and arms.


but if you dont prefer surgery, you can gain some weight and try to lose it gradually with sports.
Reply:At your age, your skin is still in relatively good condition. Your loose skin may improve over time (years). If not, surgery is the only way to get rid of it. Having said that, are you certain it isn't fat? If i were you i would go to a doctor or a surgeon and get their opinion on what to do.





With loose skin around the stomach, abs just aren't going to be visible