Panniculectomy while still overweight?

Question

I had a vertical sleeve done in June. My highest weight was 326, my surgery weight was 293 and i'm currently 254. I've been told a tummy tuck wouldn't be advisable because I still have 125 pounds to lose, but was wondering if a panniculectomy is possible because I still have a problem with the apron belly pulling down and throwing out my back and the rashes get painful if I forget baby powder. If it is possible now, will it affect my ability to get a tummy tuck in the future?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question, and congratulations on your weight loss progress so far! Yes, it is possible to undergo a panniculectomy while still overweight, especially if you're experiencing issues like back pain and rashes due to the apron belly. A panniculectomy can provide relief by removing the excess skin and fat that’s causing discomfort, making it easier to manage daily activities.

However, since you still plan to lose more weight, keep in mind that the panniculectomy will not address muscle tightening or provide the full contouring benefits of a tummy tuck. As you continue to lose weight, you may find that more excess skin develops, and you might want a tummy tuck later to tighten the remaining skin and muscles.

The good news is that having a panniculectomy now will not prevent you from getting a tummy tuck in the future. Many patients opt for the panniculectomy first to relieve functional issues and then follow up with a tummy tuck once they've reached their goal weight to achieve the best possible aesthetic results.

I recommend discussing this option with your plastic surgeon to determine the best timing and approach based on your current health and weight loss goals.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Before contemplating plastic surgery, you should have stable weight for a minimum of 6 months. It sounds like you've already lost a pretty good amount, but if you have not reached a plateau and stayed there for at least 6 months it might be better to wait until you have accomplished this goal.  A panniculectomy, however, sometimes has to be done before the weight goal has been reached if the person is very symptomatic from the heavy skin flap. Best, Dr. ALDO :)

Frederick W. Ehret, MD · Answer

It certainly is recommended that you be at your lowest maintainable weight when you do the tummy tuck. It would be possible to do the panniculectomy before then. As long as you are still able to lose a significant amount of additional weight, the tummy tuck should still be successful.

Panniculectomy while still overweight?

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