Do I have to lose weight to get a panniculectomy?

Question

I am morbidly obese. When I try to loose weight I gain it. I am okay with my body except my belly apron. Can I have that removed only. No contouring. Just remove it because of hygiene reasons mostly.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes, you can absolutely get a panniculectomy to help address the hygiene issues caused by your belly apron, as long as you are healthy enough for surgery. Many patients seek a panniculectomy for functional reasons, such as hygiene or discomfort, and the procedure can be done without additional contouring.

However, it’s essential to undergo a thorough evaluation by your surgeon to ensure you are a safe candidate for the procedure. If you're in good health and can manage the surgery, it can provide significant relief from the issues you're experiencing.

I encourage you to check out our YouTube video about a man who went through a similar struggle and found relief with a panniculectomy. It might give you some insight into what to expect from the procedure.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Stating that you are morbidly obese indicates that you are not yet a candidate for panniculectomy. Recommend that you discuss your difficulty in losing weight with your PCP who can recommend a diet and/or exercise program that could help you lose weight.  You may qualify for weight loss surgery if your BMI is over 35 and you have a serious weight-related health problem, such as high BP, severe sleep apnea, or type 2 diabetes.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. If you have morbid obesity, then a cosmetic operation or a panniculectomy is not an appropriate option. If you want to make a change in your life, you need to consider weight-loss (bariatric) surgery. Talk to your regular doctor about a referral.Good luck!

H. Joseph Naim, MD, FACS · Answer

Not really.
Panniculectomy can be done prior, during or after Bariatric Surgery!
Ideally it should be done after you have lost most of your access weight and or your weight loss has stabilized.
Some surgeons, like Dr. Fobi would offer it during open Gastric Bypass to save cost on the patient.
In some instances it can be done as a stand alone operation, only by an experienced surgeon. 
Also consider that with obesity, threre is slightly higher chance of complications after Panniculectomy.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

If you want your insurance to pay for your panniculectomy you need to demonstrate:1)pannus is hanging over your genitals and literally covering the genitals such that it creates a hygiene issue2)documentation from your primary care physician that you have required antifungal topicals to treat rashes on your lower abdomen.

Do I have to lose weight to get a panniculectomy?

Answers (5)

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