American Society of Plastic Surgeons
For Medical Professionals
 
Breezey
4 years ago
Answered

Panniculectomy on its own

Can a panniculectomy be done successfully on its own without a tummy tuck? My insurance has approved my panniculectomy, by my surgeon says he will not do it as a stand alone procedure. I would have to pay out of pocket for the tummy tuck portion. Is that standard procedure? I really want/need the panni, but tummy tuck is not an option at this time.

Procedure: Panniculectomy
Location: Franklin, TN

Replies 5

Mario Carranza-Garcia
ASPS Int. Surgeon

depending on the problem you will not be satisfied with the panniculectomy and the result will be mediocre .

why dont you send some pictures to have a better opinion.

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Daniel Allan

Yes it can, though you would obtain a better result if it were combined with a tummy tuck.

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Andrew Rosenthal
ASPS Surgeon

If you have concerns regarding this, I strongly recommend you get a second opinion either in person or a telemedicine virtual consult from a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

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Lori Cherup
ASPS Surgeon

As you know, a panniculectomy only removes the extra hanging skin that causes chafing. A tummy tuck does that and contours the belly and refines the umbilicus. If you are under 50, wait til you get the money and have the full tummy tuck. If you are a weight loss patient and still have weight to lose, do the panniculectomy. Tell the surgeon not to touch your belly button. Then in the future you probably can have a full tummy tuck and restructure your figure. Good luck.

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Nelson Castillo

Thank you for sharing your question. Yes a panniculectomy can be performed without the need for a tummy tuck, but this depends on your exact goals. A panniculectomy is aimed to only remove the apron of skin and fat that can occur with pregnancy or massive weight loss. A tummy tuck will reshape the whole abdomen. Hope this helps.

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