Do I have to lose weight to get a panniculectomy?

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

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

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!