More and more people struggling with obesity are unable to achieve significant weight loss on their own and find themselves turning to bariatric surgery to reach a healthy weight. If you’ve finally reached your weight loss goals after a similar weight loss procedure, you might need body contouring, such as a tummy tuck, to remove the resulting folds of excess skin and bring your weight loss journey full-circle.

After rapid weight loss, you may be uncomfortable wearing certain clothing despite your significant achievement and feel frustrated that your weight loss doesn’t show because of the excess skin.

Beyond aesthetic reasons, the loose, heavy folds of skin that remain can be painful, irritating and lead to infection.

It’s no secret that many people tend to gain weight around the holidays. Rich festive foods and abundant get-togethers with family, friends and colleagues make the holidays one of the most common times to gain weight… and New Year’s one of the most common times to decide to lose it. Here are 4 tips that can help you lose that stubborn fat and reach your goal weight.

If your goal is to shed excess weight, it’s important to establish a diet that is low in calories, but still contains all the nutrients your body needs. Your meals should consist of fiber, lean protein and natural vitamins found in fresh fruits and vegetables.