Panniculectomy: Stories

The difference in the way I feel about myself is incredible at just 3 days post-op. I had my first child while I was still a teenager, and he weighed 9 lbs. My abdomen stretched so that it never would tighten up at all, even after 100 lb weight loss and exercise. I have lived with a very sagging frontside for over 23 years. It wasn't until one of my coworkers had a tummy tuck and breast augmentation that I started seriously considering it.

I talked to the physician, and he seemed fairly confident that my insurance would at least partially pay for the procedures. I went in to his office for a consultation, he took 2 pictures, sent those with a letter to BCBS of TN, and within 2 weeks I had a precert number with both procedures completely approved by insurance. I got my surgery set up for about 6 weeks later, which allowed me time to get my FMLA leave approved at work.

I had bilateral breast reduction (with 482-488 grams removed from each) and 1900 grams removed from my belly in a panniculectomy. He said my lower abd fascia was also tightened up, but that the rest of it wasn't lax, so he did not tighten above my belly button. I'm just 3 days post-op, and incredibly swollen and puffy, but I already can't believe the difference. I can't wait to put on some jeans and a shirt and actually see how different everything fits. I would definitely say WORTH IT as of right now. :)