Insurance covers Panniculectomy and I can't afford to upgrade to a full TT. Will I regret having it? (photos)

This is a great question. Panniculectomy, even without adding the upper abdominal contouring, is one of the most satisfying procedures for our patients. As you are aware the panniculectomy addresses only the lower abdomen skin and fat excess while a full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdominal wall. There is no doubt that the cosmetic results of a full abdominoplasty are likely to be superior to a panniculectomy. However, the two procedures are really done for different reasons. A panniculectomy is a "functional" procedure. That is, it is designed to improve function by removing weight and folds that cause pain, limit mobility, result in rashes and difficulty exercise and clothing. A tummy tuck, abdominoplasty, is a "cosmetic" procedure that is designed to improve ones appearance. In most cases, patients will benefit from the functional results of the panniculectomy without surgery of the upper abdomen.  You and your surgeon should discuss this very carefully. Patients who are unhappy are those who expected a great cosmetic result from a panniculectomy only. An experienced surgeon should be able to tell you with some degree of confidence what a reasonable result would be for you. There are cases where a panniculectomy alone would yield a good cosmetic result and other patients where this would not advisable. I hope this helps.

In my experience, a panniculectomy changes people's lives in a profoundly positive way.  There is a low likelihood that you will regret it.  After your finances improve,  you may want to convert to an abdominoplasty in 10 years.  I have performed this operation and it can easily be done. Best of luck.