I would like to get my apron removed. How much weight would I need to lose to be considered? I'm 5'2" and weigh 284 lbs. (photo)

At your height and weight your BMI is over 50. There is a direct correlation between optimal health and BMI. That said, you can have a apronectomy. I personally perform these procedures at the hospital, and it may require at least one overnight stay. Although challenging, this is a very exciting procedure- because it will significantly improve your quality of life. It may also be a basis for you to modify your existing weight. The incision site for apronectomy will be in the C-section location---but will be extended significantly to either side.

Generally speaking, the tummy tuck operation provides for a more aesthetically pleasing outcome than a panniculectomy operation. The tummy tuck operation is best done once you have reached your long-term stable weight. In my practice, I would offer you the panniculectomy operation at any point, if you have reached a plateau with your diet and exercise program, and simply wish to have the lower abdominal wall skin/adipose tissue removed. Keep in mind, that patients who undergo surgery when they are overweight, are exposed to greater risks.

My best suggestion: seek consultation with board-certified plastic surgeons who can demonstrate significant experience achieving the types of outcomes you will be pleased with. Then, learn about options, and the pros/cons/risks/complications associated with each option. You may find the attached link, dedicated to patients who have experienced significant weight loss, helpful to you as you learn more. Best wishes.

Panniculectomy, sometimes called apronectomy is a procedure where a large incision is made across your entire abdomen and the hanging skin is removed.  It usually takes a couple of hours, at least.  The risks of anesthesia complications from a long operation coupled with the wound issues that can develop from a long incision makes this operation pretty risky, especially at your BMI.  Most plastic surgeons who's priority was your long-term health would recommend that you get your weight way down, to a BMI below 40 before taking on this operation.  According to the national institute of health, the recommended treatment for your level of obesity would be bariatric surgery.  Because it is done laparoscopically, with incisions way tinier than your C-section, it can be performed at a reasonable risk, even at your current BMI (though losing weight medically to prepare for that procedure would only would benefit your outcome.   Then, once a significant amount of weight is off, you can safely get your apronectomy.