Plus size tummy tuck. What are my options? (Photos)

Congratulations on your impressive weight loss! I encourage you to meet with a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in skin removal surgery to assist you as you continue your weight loss journey. From the photo it appears you would benefit from having the excess tissue removed via a panniculectomy. You could consider further contouring as you reach your weight loss goal.

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photos. Since your hanging tummy is interfering with your ability to work out and lose more weight, I’d recommend considering a panniculectomy, which could possibly be covered by insurance. A panniculectomy would remove the excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen, helping improve your quality of life by eliminating the issues caused by the overhang, such as heat rashes, blisters, and discomfort. This could also make it easier for you to exercise and continue your weight loss journey.

Insurance coverage for a panniculectomy usually depends on medical necessity. To improve your chances of getting coverage, you'll need to document:

Chronic rashes or infections in the skin folds.
Pain or discomfort that affects your daily activities.
Difficulty with hygiene or skin irritation.
If your insurance covers the panniculectomy, you can explore additional options like combining the procedure with a tummy tuck for better cosmetic results by paying the difference.

I encourage you to check out the video linked below of a patient who had similar struggles and underwent this procedure. Their journey might offer you some insight and hope.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Dear Giving482745,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Based on your photos and symptoms, it looks like you would benefit from panniculectomy and you will probably need another surgery once you reach your goal weight. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

At your height and weight (BMI), the safest thing would be to perform a panniculectomy where we remove the hanging skin you are complaining about. Based on what you're saying, you meet criteria for insurance purposes but have to check with your specific plan if you have coverage. We have patients who travel to see us all the times for weight loss procedures, so I am happy to do a virtual consultation if you are interested.

Beat of luck,
Omar Beidas

Tummy Tuck is not the best option for large size patients.Optimal results will come if you lose large amount of weight, before getting the tummy tuck.This can be achieved by Bariatric Surgery, like Gastric Sleeve. After about a year you can get a tummy tuck with much better results and with less chance of complications.Alternatively you can look into just getting a "Panniculectomy" which is removal of the apron...