Pandectomy Due to 100 Lb Weight Loss - Will Doctor Tighten Abs?

Question

Will the surgeon tighten my abs during this procedure?

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s not unusual for patients to develop significant
amounts of redundant abdominal tissue following massive weight loss. When this
situation arises, a variety of surgical options are available for treating this
condition. The procedure chosen is dependent upon the patient’s anatomic
findings and specific aesthetic goals. Massive weight loss is accompanied by
significant anatomic changes. Not only do patients develop large amounts of
redundant abdominal skin, but changes occur in the underlying muscles as well.
In most cases, these muscles have been stretched and weakened. These changes
are often accompanied by a midline separation known as a diastasis and occasionally
the development of hernias.

When a patient undergoes abdominal panniculectomy, the
procedure is often tailored to meet the patient’s specific needs. When the
underlying abdominal muscles have undergone changes associated with weight
loss, it’s appropriate to tighten and repair them. This is often a decision
that’s made in the operating room under direct visualization.

This decision not only involves aesthetic considerations
but safety considerations as well. It’s important to realize that tightening the
abdominal muscle can lead to respiratory insufficiency in some cases. For this
reason, it may not be appropriate to tighten the muscles in these cases.

If you’re concerned about weakness of the underlying
abdominal muscles, it’s important to discuss the
management of this issue with your plastic surgeon. Your surgeon should be able
to formulate a treatment plan that addresses your concerns.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

A panniculectomy will only remove the excess skin and fat that is forming the apron of skin, and won't do anything for anything above this. That's why a tummy tuck would probably be better for you. Muscle tightening will not be performed unless you request it.

Raj S. Ambay, MD · Answer

Tummy tuck is mainly to improve shape and contour by plicating your core tight then re-draping the skin. Without the core tightening (muscle repair), its not a tummy tuck, but a panniculectomy (skin and fat resection). Massive weight loss almost always requires tightening of your core but if approved fro a panniculectomy only then core will not be tightend by PS.. See a board certified plastic surgeon.

Pandectomy Due to 100 Lb Weight Loss - Will Doctor Tighten Abs?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Panniculectomy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Pandectomy Due to 100 Lb Weight Loss - Will Doctor Tighten Abs?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Panniculectomy

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.