Could I have this flap of skin at the bottom of my belly removed? (Photos)

Question

I have a flap of skin at the bottom my belly that touches my private area and underneath there I have about four or five real bad scars from being pregnant, and I’ve got bulges from there and the flap place over on top of that might get real bedsores and it gets real sore. I keep powder down there most of the time or under arm deodorant I was just wondering if I could

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photos. You are indeed a good candidate for a panniculectomy, which would remove the flap of skin at the bottom of your belly that’s causing discomfort and irritation. However, based on your description and photos, you might be an even better candidate for a tummy tuck.

A panniculectomy is a procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen (the "apron" or pannus) to alleviate issues such as rashes, bedsores, or discomfort. This would address the flap of skin touching your private area and help relieve the irritation you're experiencing.

However, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) offers more comprehensive results. In addition to removing the excess skin and fat, a tummy tuck also includes muscle repair to tighten the abdominal muscles, improving the overall shape of your abdomen. It can also reposition the belly button and improve the appearance of scars and bulges caused by pregnancy. The tummy tuck not only addresses the functional issues but also provides aesthetic improvements, giving you a flatter and more toned abdomen.

If you're looking to improve both function and appearance, the tummy tuck may be the better option. I recommend discussing both procedures with your plastic surgeon to determine the best approach for your needs.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Carlos Marciales, MD · Answer

Hello, you will need a tummy tuck to remove that skin, the tummy tuck will remove the previous scars from your surgeries.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Based on these photos, you seem a good candidate for panniculectomy providing that your general health can support it. Good luck.

Christopher Pannucci, MD, MS · Answer

Hi Versatile867829,
The procedure you are talking about panniculectomy, a functional operation designed to remove excess lower abdominal skin and fat, especially to improve 1) hygiene secondary to the warm moist area underneath, and 2) function, especially as a low hanging pannus (excess skin and fat)can impede her ability to exercise. To answer questions directly, yes your request is possible.
Panniculectomy is different from an abdominoplasty in several ways. Panniculectomy is a functional operation which removed excess skin and fat with the goals as above. Panniculectomy is less concerned about the final contour than tummy tuck, and does not generally perform liposuction to the flanks or tightening of any gap right to left between the 6 pack muscles.
Hope this helps.
Best,Christopher Pannucci MDBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, Washington

Adam Kinal, MD · Answer

Dear Versatile867829, Thank you for including photographs with your question. However, giving a proper assessment with an in-person examination is easier. Don't hesitate to contact several Board Certified Surgeons who specialize in these procedures to get their evaluation. Several options may be available, including a Panniculectomy, a procedure that can get rid of 'the apron' of tissue, but you may need more. Several types of tummy tuck procedures may suit you better. A Tummy Tuck will address the skin of the upper and lower abdomen, get rid of those old scars from pregnancies, and more. Still, it is advised to seek an in-person evaluation with an experienced surgeon specializing in these procedures. Good luck. Dr. Adam Kinal

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Versatile867829,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you 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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Yes you can consider having that apron of skin removed with a procedure called a panniculectomy.  You can also look into a tummy which is a more complete surgery that addresses abdominal wall laxity and removes excess fat and skin for a more complete result.

Peter Andolina, DO · Answer

In response to your question, yes you can have that lower abdominal skin removed. The procedure you would need is a panniculectomy. This procedure removes the excess, lower abdominal skin and tissue only. In some cases a panniculectomy can be covered by insurance.

Could I have this flap of skin at the bottom of my belly removed? (Photos)

Answers (8)

More Panniculectomy Questions

Can I have a panniculectomy done without an abdominoplasty? How will this affect my results? (photos)

6 years after panniculectomy, lump is present under one side of scar. What can this be?

Panniculectomy vs tummy tuck cost?

Recovery time for breast reduction and mini panniculectomy?

Stable weight, but would a 10lb loss before the surgery benefit or hinder?

My apron stomach - what options do I have to get this treated?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS