I am a 69 year old that’s looking to have my pannus removed. Can I have a panniculectomy without a tummy tuck?

Question

I can’t find a surgeon that will just do a panniculectomy without also doing a tummy tuck. I have Medicare which only covers a panniculectomy. The cost of the tummy tuck is prohibitive for me. Any suggestions? I have Medicare and tricare .

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding what you do with your lower abdomen and whether you can have a panniculectomy without a tummy tuck.  Not all medical procedures are covered by insurance. Some insurance companies cover the panniculectomy, whereas other insurance companies do not. Fortunately, your insurance company, namely Medicare and Tricare has approved your panniculectomy. If you are medically healthy, you can undergo just a panniculectomy. You do not necessarily need to have a tummy tuck. Not all patients that undergo a panniculectomy require a tummy tuck. I suggest you find a plastic surgeon who will accept Medicare reimbursement for a panniculectomy.  I believe the problem is neither you, nor your insurance. I believe your problem is that you cannot find a plastic surgeon willing to perform your panniculectomy under Medicare or Tricare reimbursement rates. I suggest you contact a plastic surgeon in your area that is willing to accept Medicare or Tricare reimbursement for a panniculectomy. Perhaps, consider going to a university hospital where there are residents in training (like Baylor or University of Texas) or a local military base for Tricare coverage.  Thank you for your question regarding panniculectomy coverage under Medicare versus paying more for a tummy tuck.  I specialize in reconstructive plastic surgery after weight loss.  If you have any more questions regarding the panniculectomy, tummy tuck, extended tummy tuck, high lateral tension tummy tuck, abdominoplasty, lower body lift, 360 circumferential lower body lift, belt lipectomy, belt abdominoplasty, or belt dermolipectomy, please contact my office. Since the panniculectomy or extended tummy tuck are big procedures, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing the panniculectomy or extended tummy tuck. Do your research.  Make sure they have performed at least 100 panniculectomies or extended tummy tuck surgeries and have the before and after pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.   If you cannot find an experienced, panniculectomy or extended tummy tuck surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling out of state if you must. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Babak Moeinolmolki, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,

Thank you for your question. If your only concern is to remove excess skin, then a panniculectomy would suffice. However if your goal involves tightening the abdominal wall, better proportions and the best cosmetic result, a tummy tuck is the procedure of choice. Panniculectomy does not address the upper abdominal skin and abdominal wall laxity.  I suggest you go for an in person or video consultation with a board certified Plastic/Cosmetic Surgeon who can help you make the best decision.  Hope this helps!
Best,

Dr. Babak Moein

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I suggest you seek a board certifed plastic surgeon and have a physical examination to discuss your options and concerns.  Best of luck!Dr Dhaval Patel
Double Board Certifed 
Plastic Surgeon
Chicago
Hoffman Estates
Oakbrook
Orland Park

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I would have to see pictures or examine you to make a determination about what may be best for you.You may be offered a panniculectomy with the option of aesthetic abdominoplasty after further weight loss.  Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cdintexas,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. In case of pannus, some insurances cover the cost of removal. 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

I am a 69 year old that’s looking to have my pannus removed. Can I have a panniculectomy without a tummy tuck?

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Answer: I am a 69 year old that’s looking to have my pannus removed. Can I have a panniculectomy without a tummy tuck?

Answer: I am a 69 year old that’s looking to have my pannus removed. Can I have a panniculectomy without a tummy tuck?

Answer: Panniculectomy

Answer: Panniculectomy

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I am a 69 year old that’s looking to have my pannus removed. Can I have a panniculectomy without a tummy tuck?

Answers (5)

Answer: I am a 69 year old that’s looking to have my pannus removed. Can I have a panniculectomy without a tummy tuck?

Answer: I am a 69 year old that’s looking to have my pannus removed. Can I have a panniculectomy without a tummy tuck?

Answer: Panniculectomy

Answer: Panniculectomy

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Everything you need to know about Panniculectomy

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