Do pannis really weigh a lot?

Question

Lost 125 lbs and not yet a target.50 more to go. This apron is killing me and not helping my herniated and bulging discs. PS said to wait until I was 10-15 lbs away from my goal before I consult about having a TT. Does that mean my apron could weigh between 10-15 lbs?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question, and congratulations on your 125-pound weight loss! The weight of a pannus (the excess skin and fat that hangs over the abdomen) can vary greatly from person to person, and it’s possible that your pannus could weigh several pounds. However, the exact weight is difficult to estimate without a physical evaluation.

In some cases, the pannus can weigh anywhere from a few pounds to over 10-15 pounds, especially if you've experienced significant weight loss. The recommendation from your plastic surgeon to wait until you’re within 10-15 pounds of your goal weight is likely based on achieving the best surgical results, as further weight loss could change the amount of excess skin or affect how the skin tightens post-surgery.

If the pannus is contributing to your back pain or other issues like your herniated and bulging discs, it’s understandable that you want relief soon. I encourage you to continue working toward your goal weight and then revisit the possibility of a tummy tuck (which provides more contouring and muscle repair) or a panniculectomy.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Staci Hix-Hernandez, MD, FACS · Answer

Wow and congratulations on your weight loss. 
While I agree it is best to wait until close to your goal weight for a tummy tuck - many weight loss patients benefit from a interim removal of the large apron.  The large an heavy flap of skin can be very painful and limit you from exercising - making the additional weight loss more difficult.  short answer - yes - the apron could weigh 10-15 pounds.
Just a thought/idea that I hope helps.  Good luck on the rest of your journey!

Babak Moeinolmolki, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Congratulations on your weight loss! Unfortunately, it is impossible to estimate the weight of your pannus without a physical examination. That said, it is common for pannuses to weight 10-15 pounds. 
Best wishes on your weight loss journey,

Do pannis really weigh a lot?

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Do pannis really weigh a lot?

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