I currently weigh 215 pounds and majority of it is my lower belly flap. That developed after I had 2 kids. I was wondering if in a good candidate for the procedure I do have high blood pressure and currently taking medication. It's really hard for me to do anything cuz I'm really uncomfortable with my lower stomach
May 27, 2016
Answer: Panniculectomy candidate Hello 'amiemarie23', thanks for your question. If you are only interested in removing the hanging lower abdominal skin and fat that may be affecting your daily living, you may be a candidate for a panniculectomy that may be covered by insurance. Every insurance is different, and they seem to be getting more strict with criteria to approve surgeries, but typically they require documentation of recurrent skin irritation and rashes that is affecting your ability to be active. However, for the best aesthetic result, you will probably benefit from a full tummy tuck procedure. Either way, it would be best to lose as much weight as possible by healthy diet and exercise to maximize your results and minimize your risks, especially with your history of high blood pressure. Be sure you seek treatment from a board-certified plastic surgeon and good luck!-Dr.92660
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May 27, 2016
Answer: Panniculectomy candidate Hello 'amiemarie23', thanks for your question. If you are only interested in removing the hanging lower abdominal skin and fat that may be affecting your daily living, you may be a candidate for a panniculectomy that may be covered by insurance. Every insurance is different, and they seem to be getting more strict with criteria to approve surgeries, but typically they require documentation of recurrent skin irritation and rashes that is affecting your ability to be active. However, for the best aesthetic result, you will probably benefit from a full tummy tuck procedure. Either way, it would be best to lose as much weight as possible by healthy diet and exercise to maximize your results and minimize your risks, especially with your history of high blood pressure. Be sure you seek treatment from a board-certified plastic surgeon and good luck!-Dr.92660
Helpful
May 22, 2016
Answer: Panniculectomy and insurance coverage The procedure you are asking about is a panniculectomy, where just the hanging part of the abdomen is removed. First, to qualify for coverage, you need a history of rashes in the trapped area of skin underneath, called intertrigo. Some patients will get actually wounds. Take a picture if this happens so that you will qualify. Second, most patients who get a panniculectomy really need a abdominoplasty, in which the belly button is "moved" and more skin is excised. So prepare to be disappointed with your panniculectomy. Finally, you are being unrealistic when you think most of your weight is in your pannus. It's sadly about 10 points max, so start working out four times a week, lose some weight, and then get evaluated for an abdominoplasty. Then you will truly look great because the surgeon will be able to remove more skin.
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May 22, 2016
Answer: Panniculectomy and insurance coverage The procedure you are asking about is a panniculectomy, where just the hanging part of the abdomen is removed. First, to qualify for coverage, you need a history of rashes in the trapped area of skin underneath, called intertrigo. Some patients will get actually wounds. Take a picture if this happens so that you will qualify. Second, most patients who get a panniculectomy really need a abdominoplasty, in which the belly button is "moved" and more skin is excised. So prepare to be disappointed with your panniculectomy. Finally, you are being unrealistic when you think most of your weight is in your pannus. It's sadly about 10 points max, so start working out four times a week, lose some weight, and then get evaluated for an abdominoplasty. Then you will truly look great because the surgeon will be able to remove more skin.
Helpful
