Panniculectomy Surgery After Weight Loss

After a successful weight loss program, it's very common to have an area of extra skin and fat, sometimes called an apron, hanging down from the lower abdomen. Physicians refer to the area as a pannus; hence the surgery to remove it is called panniculectomy. The procedure includes removal of this extra skin and fat with an incision from hip to hip on the lower torso. Surgery removes skin and fat but does not tighten the abdominal muscles or reshape the belly button area.

This is one of the few body contouring procedures your insurance plan may cover. If you want to pursue coverage, it's wise to document the health problems associated with your pannus. These may include rashes, skin breakdown and lower back pain. It's advisable to take photographs to document such issues. Unfortunately, few post weight loss surgery patients' needs can be completely addressed with this midbody procedure alone.

Not sure if this is the right surgery for you? Don't worry. Take a look at Dr. Kaufman's before and after photo gallery and you'll begin to understand the various torso procedures. Then, request a consultation with him. He'll help you evaluate your after weight loss surgery options and make the best choice.

Candidates for Panniculectomy

Candidates for a panniculectomy typically have achieved their weight loss goal or have come close and perhaps reached a plateau. Often, the overhanging skin gets in the way of exercise and further weight loss; almost always, it's an obstacle to physical intimacy and finding clothes that fit well. In extreme cases, a pannus can extend downward to cover the upper legs or even the knees. These patients can have trouble standing, walking upright or just sitting.

Candidates for panniculectomy are most often bothered by skin and fat that's localized on the lower torso, or who otherwise want to delay or avoid an abdominoplasty. From a risk/benefit standpoint, this procedure has the lowest risk of the midbody procedures. Potential risks do exist, however, and include blood clots, fluid collection and problems with anesthesia and wound healing. In most cases, however, surgery and recovery are smooth and patients are pleased with their new, more streamlined torso.

Panniculectomy Surgery and Recovery

The surgery takes between two to four hours to perform, depending on the size of the pannus. Most patients have general anesthesia; however, the procedure can be done under conscious sedation with an epidural depending on your health and personal preferences.

The incision for a panniculectomy extends from hip to hip. Excess skin and fat is removed before the remaining skin is brought together and closed. You may have drains for a few days, and you'll need to wear a compression garment for a few weeks.

You can expect to feel discomfort for the first few days following surgery, after which you should be able to discontinue prescription pain medication. After one to two weeks you can begin resuming light activities. You'll feel fully recovered in about two months.

Call (916) 235-8838 to arrange a plastic surgery after weight loss consultation with Dr. Kaufman. His office is conveniently located on East Bidwell Street in Folsom, close to the communities of the greater Sacramento area.