Panniculectomy vs. Tummy tuck while wanting to have children.

Question

I'm 26, and has gastric bypass surgery in Oct 2015. I am now looking into plastic surgery. My insurance will cover a panniculectomy, due to my rashes under my belly hangover skin. I want to have kids within a year or two at most. So I am leaning towards the panniculectomy just so I can be healthier for when I want to have children. It would seem a waste to have a tummy tuck before children.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. If you're planning on becoming pregnant within the next year, I would recommend waiting to have your panniculectomy or tummy tuck. Pregnancy can stretch the abdominal muscles and skin, potentially undoing the results of the surgery, so it’s usually best to wait until after pregnancy for these procedures.

However, if you're unsure or may not be getting pregnant in the near future, I recommend going ahead with the tummy tuck. A tummy tuck will not harm your baby during pregnancy, and many women find that it helps their stomach snap back more easily after giving birth because of the muscle repair and skin tightening.

Ultimately, the decision depends on your plans, but if pregnancy isn’t happening soon, there's no reason to delay improving your quality of life and body confidence.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Ankur Mehta, MD · Answer

I think the way you are thinking about this is logical and makes sense to me. I think the panniculectomy is a good idea to get done first so that your rashes can improve and this may even help take off some of the heaviness you feel which may make it easier for you to exercise. If someone is wanting to still have kids in the future I recommend waiting for a full tummy tuck. The reason I do this is, if you have a tummy tuck then have kids later, you will likely need a revision. Its best to be done having kids, then have a tummy tuck for longer lasting results. Good luck!Ankur Mehta MD

Badar Jan, MD · Answer

A very important question. As a general principle I recommend patients achieve their weight loss goals as well as complete any expected pregnancies before any body contouring procedures. What separates a tummy tuck and panniculectomy is significant however I view all procedures as having a cosmetic impact in a goal of achieving the best possbile results. If you are having significant symptoms it's reasonable to proceed with the panniculectomy. If you can wait it's desirable to have the entire procedure performed in one setting.

Best wishes

Dr. Jan

Best wishes

Dr. Jan

Cain R. Linville, MD, FACS · Answer

Agreed. You should go with the pannic for health reasons and insurance completely covers that procedure.  Adding a tummy tuck is additional cost and is cosmetic.  Children in the future is also a key thing to know - wait until after kids to have your TT to maximize your result and investment.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

Your rationale is sound. You may benefit from a panniculectomy to remove some of the excess skin and provide an emotional boost. Consult an experienced and expert board certified plastic surgeon to understand your options.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

You are on the right track. It would be ill advised to undergo the abdominoplasty prior to having children but the panniculectomy will remove excess skin, increase your self esteem and prevent the intertrigo.

Panniculectomy vs. Tummy tuck while wanting to have children.

Answers (6)

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