1000-lb Sisters star's deadly battle against loose skin after 31st weight loss
Tammy Slaton has been impressing fans with her weight loss journey, dropping two dress sizes and shedding enough pounds to finally walk unassisted.
The 1000-lb Sisters star has managed to lose 440lb (31.4 stone) in total, going from 725lb (51.8 stone) to 285lb (20.6 stone) with the help of bariatric surgery. However, with such a drastic weight loss, Tammy has been left with a lot of loose skin.
Loose skin is often caused by losing a lot of weight over a short period of time and is said to happen more to weight loss surgery patients. One way to get rid of the excess skin is by having plastic surgery, which could cost up to $85,000 (£67,000). Fans are excited over the prospect of Tammy having skin removal surgery, but clinical dietitian Kate Hilton said their could be complications.
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Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, Kate explained: "The skin possesses natural elasticity and the ability for retraction, it can accommodate substantial growth during pregnancy, and revert to a firmer state postpartum, typically within several months after childbirth. However, substantial weight gain can prolong the period of skin distension, potentially damaging collagen, and elastin fibres vital for skin elasticity.
My 600lb Life star unveils 40 stone weight loss after being unable to stand up"As a rule of thumb, the more significant the weight reduction the more noticeable loose skin will appear around the body." She said removing the loose skin is "considered major surgery" and comes with several risks.
Kate, who specialises in personalised weight loss programmes, said Tammy would be at risk of loss of skin sensation, bleeding, blood clots, bruising and scarring if she undergoes the procedure. She added: "Nonetheless, it's essential to recognise that despite the aesthetic concerns of loose skin, the body is typically in a healthier state post-weight loss due to the reduction of risks associated with carrying excess weight."
Tammy recently held back tears as she revealed she has reached her lowest weight since she was a teenager. The 37-year-old couldn't help but smile as she paid a visit to her weight loss doctor, Dr Smith, for a follow-up to her bariatric surgery.
In an episode of 1000-lb Sisters, Tammy admitted she had been worried about going to her appointment. Speaking in a confessional, Tammy said: "I was so worried about the number, but in six months I lost over 100 pounds. The last time I weighed this low I was like 15, 16. It's mind-blowing, like, I freaking really did this."
Kate Hilton is a clinical dietitian who spoke to The Mirror on behalf of Feel Gut.