What is the visible physical difference between a panniculectomy and an abdominoplasty? Difference in recovery?

Question

I'm still 2stone away from my desired weight, having lost 5 stone so far. I have a large pannus that hangs - and it's its now probably the only part of me that looks 'overweight'. What would be the visible physical difference between a panniculectomy and an abdominoplasty? How long a stay is required in hospital after each, and is there a difference in follow up? Thank you

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello treowth, Thank you for your question regarding the difference between a panniculectomy and an abdominoplasty and what is the difference in recovery.
What is the visible physical difference between a panniculectomy and an abdominoplasty and what is the difference in recovery.  The main visible physical difference between between a panniculectomy and an abdominoplasty is a scar around the umbilicus (belly button) during an abdominoplasty.  Also, during an abdominoplasty, the rectus abdominis muscle is plicated; therefore on profile view, the abdomen should look flatter with an abdominoplasty compared to a panniculectomy.  
Let's look at the distinction between an abdominoplasty and a panniculectomy. Let's look at the definition of panniculectomy. Two terms are combined to form a panniculectomy. First, the word "pannus," which describes a hanging flap of tissue, comes from the Latin word for "tablecloth." The Greek term "ektome," which meaning to cut out or remove, is where the second "-ectomy" originates. Consequently, a panniculectomy is the surgical excision of the pannus. Pannus can occur in the eyes, joints, and other parts of the body in a variety of ways. In your instance, the skin apron that hangs over the pubic area is referred to as the pannus.   In theory, a panniculectomy only entails the pannus being removed. Raising or lowering the pubic area is not a part of a panniculectomy. A panniculectomy does not entail liposuction, rectus abdominis plication, rectus diastasis/separation repair, or any manipulation of the umbilicus (belly button). Now let's look at the components of a tummy tuck. The medical term for a tummy tuck is an abdominoplasty. The Latin word "abdomin," which means "abdomen," and the Greek word "-plastia," which means "to form" or "to mold," are combined to generate the phrase abdominoplasty. Tummy tucks come in eight different varieties. The classic low horizontal stomach tuck, extended tummy tuck, high lateral tension tummy tuck, vertical tummy tuck, inverted T or fleur-de-lis (FDL) tummy tuck, small tummy tuck, reverse tummy tuck, and lateral tummy tuck are among them. Different anatomic issues call for different tummy tucks. Compared to a panniculectomy, the rectus abdominis muscle is plicated, resulting in a considerably flatter stomach on profile. Because an incision is performed beneath the abdominal pannus, the tummy tuck would be comparable to a panniculectomy in your situation. Furthermore, the removal of extra skin and fat from the dangling pannus is another similarity between the panniculectomy and abdominoplasty. But the similarities between an abdominoplasty and a panniculectomy essentially end there. Compared to a panniculectomy, an abdominoplasty is a far more intrusive operation with generally better and superior results. Additionally, the belly button is moved and made to look nicer after a stomach tuck. Additionally, because a tummy tuck allows for the removal of more skin and fat than a panniculectomy, abdominoplasty is far superior. Excess skin and fat are usually removed from above the belly button to the top of the pubic area. Recall that just the skin and fat from the pubic area to the top of the dangling pannus are removed during a panniculectomy. Additionally, a tummy tuck is typically done in conjunction with liposuction. A panniculectomy with a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty are generally far better for nearly all patients. Unfortunately, not all insurance companies support panniculectomy, despite the fact that many do. Even though it would cost more, if I were you, I would choose the tummy tuck over the panniculectomy. I hope that this clarifies the distinction between an abdominoplasty and a panniculectomy. Recall that an abdominoplasty addresses the entire abdominal wall and usually yields considerably better outcomes than a panniculectomy, which normally simply removes the pannus.   
The recovery for a panniculectomy and an abdominoplasty is about the same-- 2 to 3 weeks.  
Most plastic surgeons offer free virtual or in-office physical consultations.  Therefore, explore what other plastic surgeons have to say.  Good luck.  I hope that I have answered your question regarding the difference between a panniculectomy and an abdominoplasty and what is the difference in recovery.  If you have any more questions regarding the panniculectomy, extended lower body lift, lower body lift, 360 circumferential lower body lift, belt lipectomy, belt abdominoplasty, or belt dermolipectomy, contact an experienced plastic surgeon. Since the panniculectomy or lower body lift is a big procedure, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing the panniculectomy or lower body lift. Do your research.  Make sure they have performed at least 100 panniculectomies or circumferential lower body lift surgeries and have the before-and-after pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before-and-after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.   If you cannot find an experienced, panniculectomy or lower body lift surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling out of state if you must. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (Plastic Surgeon, President of  the American Society of Bariatric Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, RealSelf Hall of Fame, and RealSelf Doctor Advisory Board for Medical Review and Consumer Panel.)

M. Mark Mofid, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there,Thank you for your question. Visually, a panniculectomy removes excess lower abdominal skin and tissue (the “apron”) without tightening the muscles or significantly reshaping the waist, so the result is flatter but not necessarily more contoured. An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) also removes excess skin but includes muscle tightening and contouring, creating a flatter, firmer abdomen with more definition.
In terms of recovery, both are similar in timeline, but an abdominoplasty is often a bit more involved due to muscle repair, which can mean slightly more discomfort and a longer initial recovery. Please consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

What is the visible physical difference between a panniculectomy and an abdominoplasty? Difference in recovery?

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