POSTED UNDER Panniculectomy REVIEWS
Choosing the Panniculectomy and Kicking Abdominoplasty to the Curb- Says 45 Yr Old Mother of 2 Boys - Charlotte, NC
ORIGINAL POST
Hey, let's face it. We all want to have a "hot...
ptz2015December 10, 2015
WORTH IT$3,418
Hey, let's face it. We all want to have a "hot bod". It's true, I'll admit it. I hate on others a little bit when I see them prancing around in what I assume to be a bikini, with a perfectly oiled and tanned belly, yup, I am confessing. But here's the thing. At 45 and with all I have suffered through. Taking on a more significant procedure only because I want to measure myself against this impossible image society keeps shoving in our faces......ahhhhhhhh Skip Please..................... .
Look there is nothing wrong with just doing the essentials and being very happy with that and not take the extra pressure. At 45 I am not trying to be seen on the beach like I was 20 years ago. But moreso, I made this decision based on my overall health. I want to be happy, healthy, and confident. But not at the cost of risking things unnecessarily. And no I am not slamming people having a tummy tuck. Its an amazing dramatic surgery. Lots of Wow factor.
I also am not in the financial position to fork over $8000 for something that is not going to do a whole lot for me. When you've had a huge flappy hunk of skin in the way, that being gone is transforming itself. You're not losing by only having only a panni. So if you are feeling cheated...STOP. It's cool and you are going to look stunning.
I Decided to have the panni and bi-lateral thigh tuck. Medicare paid for both. Yes, they really did. I took some planning on my part. Taking pictures of infection sites. Getting into my primary for documentation. Even when they were minor skin rashes, and even got into a dermatology specialist and that seemed to really do the trick. Getting to a higher level of skin medical treatment was seen with more intensive importance. I made sure to get copies of pharmacy print outs. That showed all the months of prescriptions were filled with creams, ointments, oral medications etc. It really helped. For other who had gastric bypass surgeries, you know that our thighs rub, get raw, and rash up during even mild exersize. Be sure to take photos and express that at visits. I had to ask my Drs to notate all discussion with specifics. And because my inner thighs would get boils especially during the summer, I requested a different medication for that area. That was the factor that got my thigh surgery. ANd for those taking notes. Get to know your PS biller. They can give awesome tips too. I listened to mine and it was a huge help. Through her I called Medicare and learned that although they had approved the thigh lift and panniculectomy, if I added a procedure I was paying for, that they did not approve, none of it would get covered. SO it was either wait on surgery until I could pay for all of it, just to get the TT, or realize the panni and thigh tuck really were going to give me enough of that "hot bod". The final factor was my health. As having had a major spinal fusion and being disabed with spinal compression. TT keep you bent over for quite a while and my spinal neurosurgeon was concerned for that generating a flare up that result i intensive rehab all over again.
Well that's a ton of info.
I will be coming back to update for sure.
Look there is nothing wrong with just doing the essentials and being very happy with that and not take the extra pressure. At 45 I am not trying to be seen on the beach like I was 20 years ago. But moreso, I made this decision based on my overall health. I want to be happy, healthy, and confident. But not at the cost of risking things unnecessarily. And no I am not slamming people having a tummy tuck. Its an amazing dramatic surgery. Lots of Wow factor.
I also am not in the financial position to fork over $8000 for something that is not going to do a whole lot for me. When you've had a huge flappy hunk of skin in the way, that being gone is transforming itself. You're not losing by only having only a panni. So if you are feeling cheated...STOP. It's cool and you are going to look stunning.
I Decided to have the panni and bi-lateral thigh tuck. Medicare paid for both. Yes, they really did. I took some planning on my part. Taking pictures of infection sites. Getting into my primary for documentation. Even when they were minor skin rashes, and even got into a dermatology specialist and that seemed to really do the trick. Getting to a higher level of skin medical treatment was seen with more intensive importance. I made sure to get copies of pharmacy print outs. That showed all the months of prescriptions were filled with creams, ointments, oral medications etc. It really helped. For other who had gastric bypass surgeries, you know that our thighs rub, get raw, and rash up during even mild exersize. Be sure to take photos and express that at visits. I had to ask my Drs to notate all discussion with specifics. And because my inner thighs would get boils especially during the summer, I requested a different medication for that area. That was the factor that got my thigh surgery. ANd for those taking notes. Get to know your PS biller. They can give awesome tips too. I listened to mine and it was a huge help. Through her I called Medicare and learned that although they had approved the thigh lift and panniculectomy, if I added a procedure I was paying for, that they did not approve, none of it would get covered. SO it was either wait on surgery until I could pay for all of it, just to get the TT, or realize the panni and thigh tuck really were going to give me enough of that "hot bod". The final factor was my health. As having had a major spinal fusion and being disabed with spinal compression. TT keep you bent over for quite a while and my spinal neurosurgeon was concerned for that generating a flare up that result i intensive rehab all over again.
Well that's a ton of info.
I will be coming back to update for sure.
Replies (17)
December 17, 2015
Im really glad you were able to get those surgeries paid for by Medicare. I had an RNY gastric surgery some years ago and in all Ive lost around 150 lbs and still going. I get awful infections under my flabs of skin in various places as well. Plus I even had to have a hip replacement because of a *sigh* bad decision involving my brother wanting me to see the view from the foundation of the house he was building, which was on the side of a hill :/ needless to say, he dropped my hand and down I went, hip first on the sharp edge of the foundation. Long story shortened, drs took xray, nothing broken, years went by, while the cartilage was slowly disintegrating and the pain worsening, bone on bone, so when it was so bad I could no longer walk on it, they finally decided, 'oh, you have no cartilage, when you fell it cracked' duh. So thus, it disabled me, and I am working on getting myself UNdisabled, the weight is off, one leg is fixed, but because of favoring that one leg for 2 and a half years, the other leg suffered double duty, and is now needing the same thing. Ortho dr said because of the infections, I HAVE to have the 'skirt' removed before the surgery. Thus, my problem. So this is what I am dealing with now. Between a rock and a hard spot. So I just found out that when a person has been on disability for 24 months, they are put on Medicare, well I was not informed of this, and so now am looking into it as I have been on this for 5 + years now. So I see that at least 3 Surgeons in the Springs accept Medicare, so i have a bit of hope now. So will be looking further into this now, and can see a light at the end of the tunnel.
I hope to see some new photos of you and an update on how you are doing. Your situation sounds so much like my own. I wish you the very very best!! :D
I hope to see some new photos of you and an update on how you are doing. Your situation sounds so much like my own. I wish you the very very best!! :D
December 17, 2015
Holy smokes woman...my goodness. That is when you say...ahhhhh, I would like to get off the ride now please! I am so very sorry to hear of the string of events landing you in the rock and a hard place. You know, I really wish that terrible location could be obliterated. Too many people get caught there.
As far as disability. Not exactly sure I understand how you are describing it. But if you do have Part A & B Medicare, getting your surgery covered may be easier than you expect. I do know that you are never automatically put onto Medicare. You must apply . Even after being declared disabled, it can take up to another 2 years to receive medical coverage. Now I think that might be what you are referring to. If so, you are correct that you will receive a coverage date on the card. Be sure to get that Red,White and Blue card. And I am glad you are going to search around for Drs accepting direct medicare. Here in Charlotte, they way it works if you are using direct Medicare, not those Medicare Advantage plans private insurance companies run. And by the way, statistical data now shows you can actually save money avoiding the advantage plans that charge you huge co-payments often greater than the 20% you would pay anyway. With the right Dr, You can sometimes get the surgery done and then they file Medicare afterwords, mainly because the Drs never know what Medicare will pay them so they wait until after they receive their payment from Medicare and then charge you what is left over. Whatever Medicare does not cover you will get billed. Now that can be a double edged sword. You get the surgery without having to make any down payments, but may get a huge bill later. Depending on your approach to life, one may appeal more than the other. Even if I had not worked with Medicare in advance, I would have taken the chance anyway since the Dr was willing.
Okay, blah, not sure you even asked any of that. Boy do I ramble sometimes. I am really impressed with you determination and focus to get healthy. Congrats on the weight loss. It is no easy thing to do. When I had my gastric bypass in 2005, I was so excited to get a new start on life. Having my extra skin and thigh tuck done has made me feel the same way. I have spent the last 10 years assuming I would be stuck with that huge flop of skin always getting in the way. And my thighs rubbed together so much the friction burns would get infected or turn into boils. I am grateful for a chance to be free of those challenges.
I am posting pictures later today. Reach out anytime. I am here to support you in any way I can and will be cheering you every step of the way. Not sure if you just heard that big good luck you can do it holler...but I do know my neighbors dog did. Hehehehehe...bet I'll hear from her later. Oh well.........................GOOD LUCK!!!!
As far as disability. Not exactly sure I understand how you are describing it. But if you do have Part A & B Medicare, getting your surgery covered may be easier than you expect. I do know that you are never automatically put onto Medicare. You must apply . Even after being declared disabled, it can take up to another 2 years to receive medical coverage. Now I think that might be what you are referring to. If so, you are correct that you will receive a coverage date on the card. Be sure to get that Red,White and Blue card. And I am glad you are going to search around for Drs accepting direct medicare. Here in Charlotte, they way it works if you are using direct Medicare, not those Medicare Advantage plans private insurance companies run. And by the way, statistical data now shows you can actually save money avoiding the advantage plans that charge you huge co-payments often greater than the 20% you would pay anyway. With the right Dr, You can sometimes get the surgery done and then they file Medicare afterwords, mainly because the Drs never know what Medicare will pay them so they wait until after they receive their payment from Medicare and then charge you what is left over. Whatever Medicare does not cover you will get billed. Now that can be a double edged sword. You get the surgery without having to make any down payments, but may get a huge bill later. Depending on your approach to life, one may appeal more than the other. Even if I had not worked with Medicare in advance, I would have taken the chance anyway since the Dr was willing.
Okay, blah, not sure you even asked any of that. Boy do I ramble sometimes. I am really impressed with you determination and focus to get healthy. Congrats on the weight loss. It is no easy thing to do. When I had my gastric bypass in 2005, I was so excited to get a new start on life. Having my extra skin and thigh tuck done has made me feel the same way. I have spent the last 10 years assuming I would be stuck with that huge flop of skin always getting in the way. And my thighs rubbed together so much the friction burns would get infected or turn into boils. I am grateful for a chance to be free of those challenges.
I am posting pictures later today. Reach out anytime. I am here to support you in any way I can and will be cheering you every step of the way. Not sure if you just heard that big good luck you can do it holler...but I do know my neighbors dog did. Hehehehehe...bet I'll hear from her later. Oh well.........................GOOD LUCK!!!!
December 24, 2015
Hello, are you going to add leg surgery photos ??
Also do you have a before photo ?
Was the price posted for both procedures ?
Thank you for your time
:)
Also do you have a before photo ?
Was the price posted for both procedures ?
Thank you for your time
:)
December 24, 2015
Hi, I actually posted my thigh lift story under the thigh lift treatment section so people searching for thigh lift were sure to find it. But you made me realize I should add pictures here too. I will do that. Thanks for mentioning it.
I was very fortunate in finding a surgeon whose prices seem much lower than the average here on the site. Perhaps it is my area, or that I used Medicare as primary insurance. But my panniculectomy was $3,418.00 , My thigh lift was $4,172.00 From some of the research I did, many surgeons do not reposition the belly button and those who do may charge additional fees. It's so all over the place on that specific issue. So there are 3 types of PS. One group repositions and pulls your Belly button through as a standard with procedure. The 2nd group will do it for a fee, and only if you remember to have that discussion ahead of time in consult. The 3rd does not, often not even if a fee is offered. Average price if required was $1500-$2300 which to me is crazy. At my last post op visit, I asked my surgeon, OR assistiant why he does not offer to pull through belly button and as a standard will just cover it. She explained that during a panniculectomy, in order to cover the area of skin removed you must pull down skin from the upper ab. Since the belly button in a way anchors the skin the base of the BB stock is cut and the skin than can freely be pulled down. If the stock is not cut, the belly button becomes grossly destorted and stretched and leave a huge strange divet. And in his practice all the PS pull skin over the severed umbilis stock and complete surgery simply because many people's BB does not survive the process of being pulled back through and turns black and dies. If that is something that is a common in general, or just a precaution they take, she did not say. But in cases where massive amounts of skin are removed, she did mention it simply does not survive. In my case, he said there was not as much to remove, my BB was naturally in a good location and that it looked healthy enough to survive hi procedure style. Mentioning the multiple other surgeries that have gone through my BB showed him something. He took the time to ensure healthy material was anchored and pulled through. At an expense he waived both in fees and the extra OR time. And as I stated in earlier posts, his OR assistant was a bit stunned since it was not planned and the OR was not instructed he would do that and she had not seen him do that before for a patient. So I considered it an act of mercy and a Christmas gift. She mentioned a discussion about my personal situation and my stubborn behavior to not spend 2 nights in the hospital but insisted going home to my special needs children Who knows, but I am humbled and grateful. No words really.
Okay so I blabbed on and on. Sorry. I will add the thigh photos, and I am here any time to answer questions. I told my PS office about this site and begged them to let me ask gazillions of questions. They laughed and said sure. So we will see. As always, and a disclaimer, communicate with your PS to ensure information's correctness. I am repeating what I was told personally.
Thanks so much for your interest. Here for you through your journey. I sincerely mean that.
I was very fortunate in finding a surgeon whose prices seem much lower than the average here on the site. Perhaps it is my area, or that I used Medicare as primary insurance. But my panniculectomy was $3,418.00 , My thigh lift was $4,172.00 From some of the research I did, many surgeons do not reposition the belly button and those who do may charge additional fees. It's so all over the place on that specific issue. So there are 3 types of PS. One group repositions and pulls your Belly button through as a standard with procedure. The 2nd group will do it for a fee, and only if you remember to have that discussion ahead of time in consult. The 3rd does not, often not even if a fee is offered. Average price if required was $1500-$2300 which to me is crazy. At my last post op visit, I asked my surgeon, OR assistiant why he does not offer to pull through belly button and as a standard will just cover it. She explained that during a panniculectomy, in order to cover the area of skin removed you must pull down skin from the upper ab. Since the belly button in a way anchors the skin the base of the BB stock is cut and the skin than can freely be pulled down. If the stock is not cut, the belly button becomes grossly destorted and stretched and leave a huge strange divet. And in his practice all the PS pull skin over the severed umbilis stock and complete surgery simply because many people's BB does not survive the process of being pulled back through and turns black and dies. If that is something that is a common in general, or just a precaution they take, she did not say. But in cases where massive amounts of skin are removed, she did mention it simply does not survive. In my case, he said there was not as much to remove, my BB was naturally in a good location and that it looked healthy enough to survive hi procedure style. Mentioning the multiple other surgeries that have gone through my BB showed him something. He took the time to ensure healthy material was anchored and pulled through. At an expense he waived both in fees and the extra OR time. And as I stated in earlier posts, his OR assistant was a bit stunned since it was not planned and the OR was not instructed he would do that and she had not seen him do that before for a patient. So I considered it an act of mercy and a Christmas gift. She mentioned a discussion about my personal situation and my stubborn behavior to not spend 2 nights in the hospital but insisted going home to my special needs children Who knows, but I am humbled and grateful. No words really.
Okay so I blabbed on and on. Sorry. I will add the thigh photos, and I am here any time to answer questions. I told my PS office about this site and begged them to let me ask gazillions of questions. They laughed and said sure. So we will see. As always, and a disclaimer, communicate with your PS to ensure information's correctness. I am repeating what I was told personally.
Thanks so much for your interest. Here for you through your journey. I sincerely mean that.
December 24, 2015
You look terrific hon, how are you feeling now? The swelling seems to be typical initially!
Enjoy your new figure! :-)
Enjoy your new figure! :-)
December 24, 2015
Thank you, thank you. Glad to know that. I do seem to keep looking for the missing parts. You know it only hit me yesterday when I sat down to pee (where else would we share how we pee...gotta love this community so accepting-AWESOME) it hit me that when I sit to pee know I don't have to hold up my flap of skin and fat to allow myself to fully void all the pee. With my spinal cord injury those impulses and nerves are damaged and that extra skin made it hard. I had to lift it so the pressure would come off. I can sit without that whole process. Gosh its weird...wonderfully weird. But thanks, I am glad to know the up and down swelling is normal. I freaked out last night because it got much worse. But I had been very busy and this morning it looks more as it had.
December 24, 2015
What u doing a panni?
December 24, 2015
Hi, I did a panni and a thigh lift. I made the mistake of not posting the thigh lift pictures here too. I did that under the thigh lift treatment area. Someone else wanted to know about the thigh lift so I am about to add those pictures for people too.
The panni was done December 3rd, I am 21 days post op today and doing much better. I have had a reasonably uneventful recovery other than having limited help at home and pushing was to hard.
The panni was done December 3rd, I am 21 days post op today and doing much better. I have had a reasonably uneventful recovery other than having limited help at home and pushing was to hard.
UPDATED FROM ptz2015
7 days post
Panniculectomy pictures 4 days Post op
ptz2015December 10, 2015
Hi there. It really helped me to see the photos of other people's surgery incisions. So I am uploading some. I won't sugar coat it. It's gonna hurt. It will burn as the pain meds wear off and it will feel numb. A bothersome thing for me is my skin is very hypersensitive. I have to really pad them well to tolerate the edges of the binder pressing on my hip to hip incision.
A few tips that helped me:
-I padded my recliner chair with a big folded memory foam pad. It let me comfortably sink into chair and tolerate how things felt.
-A walker to assist me in transitioning. You will still need someone to help at first, but it is a best friend in those first 3 days. Trying to lower myself to the toilet was impossible.
-A grabber, for all those bothersome things you drop. Bending over hurts to much and I am avoiding it.
-Pee standing up for a few days. It gets better. For me, my thigh lift made this part hell.
-Buy lots of extra incision bandage supplies. You will appreciate the little areas that poke and stick out. Some padding helps.
-For a thigh lift you really need short night gowns. For a panni you can manage with pants, but they need to be roomy and elastic waist.
-Buy some broth ahead of time. I had both chicken and beef and was so glad I did in fact have them starting out.
-Ask you Dr to give you your pain med script so it can be waiting for you at home.
-Warm fuzzy socks
-Swelling prep, its gonna be worse than you think. Our bodies are amazing. But don't worry, you will see it decrease every day.
-Big tip here. I never suffered any constipation. Mirlax is your friend. My son has GI disease. Constipation is a real problem for him. Putting him in the hospital many times. We finally beat that cycle using Mirlax in specific ways. I tried it and it worked.
==Take one cap full of Mirlax in 4-6 ounces of your favorite drink with each pain medication dose. Be faithful with this. Drink plenty inbetween and you will see the necessary results. No worry about getting loose stools, it will balance. I took 3 solutions day before surgery and ate very light. I had a bowel movement just before leaving for hospital. I am still constipation free . It really makes things more comfortable.
-Wet wipes for the bathroom
- Get some very smooth silky tanks to go under the binder. You will thank me later
-Lots of pillows and a soft throw to melt into for comfort.
-Make sure to have underwear that edges are very soft and not elastic edged. No line panties are softer.
-Take the 12 things I wish I knew tips to heart. And they are right...no comedy...
-Hand sanitizer everywhere, especially if you have school ages children. Getting a GI bug from your kids school would suck. Get everyone to clean up before hugs for the first few days especially.
I am sure I am forgetting things, but those will help for sure. I did buy some bathing cloths pre-packages. Mine could be warmed in the microwave and were a nice refresher. Walmart sells some and they worked great.
Forgive the typos...pain meds are wonderful for pain, bad for typing
A few tips that helped me:
-I padded my recliner chair with a big folded memory foam pad. It let me comfortably sink into chair and tolerate how things felt.
-A walker to assist me in transitioning. You will still need someone to help at first, but it is a best friend in those first 3 days. Trying to lower myself to the toilet was impossible.
-A grabber, for all those bothersome things you drop. Bending over hurts to much and I am avoiding it.
-Pee standing up for a few days. It gets better. For me, my thigh lift made this part hell.
-Buy lots of extra incision bandage supplies. You will appreciate the little areas that poke and stick out. Some padding helps.
-For a thigh lift you really need short night gowns. For a panni you can manage with pants, but they need to be roomy and elastic waist.
-Buy some broth ahead of time. I had both chicken and beef and was so glad I did in fact have them starting out.
-Ask you Dr to give you your pain med script so it can be waiting for you at home.
-Warm fuzzy socks
-Swelling prep, its gonna be worse than you think. Our bodies are amazing. But don't worry, you will see it decrease every day.
-Big tip here. I never suffered any constipation. Mirlax is your friend. My son has GI disease. Constipation is a real problem for him. Putting him in the hospital many times. We finally beat that cycle using Mirlax in specific ways. I tried it and it worked.
==Take one cap full of Mirlax in 4-6 ounces of your favorite drink with each pain medication dose. Be faithful with this. Drink plenty inbetween and you will see the necessary results. No worry about getting loose stools, it will balance. I took 3 solutions day before surgery and ate very light. I had a bowel movement just before leaving for hospital. I am still constipation free . It really makes things more comfortable.
-Wet wipes for the bathroom
- Get some very smooth silky tanks to go under the binder. You will thank me later
-Lots of pillows and a soft throw to melt into for comfort.
-Make sure to have underwear that edges are very soft and not elastic edged. No line panties are softer.
-Take the 12 things I wish I knew tips to heart. And they are right...no comedy...
-Hand sanitizer everywhere, especially if you have school ages children. Getting a GI bug from your kids school would suck. Get everyone to clean up before hugs for the first few days especially.
I am sure I am forgetting things, but those will help for sure. I did buy some bathing cloths pre-packages. Mine could be warmed in the microwave and were a nice refresher. Walmart sells some and they worked great.
Forgive the typos...pain meds are wonderful for pain, bad for typing
Replies (10)
December 11, 2015
Thank you so much for sharing your story and pictures. I am having a panni on December 17, and I really appreciate the tips! Hope your recovery continues to go well and keep us updated.
December 11, 2015
I am so glad. Your day is almost here. I bet you are excited, scared, and everything inbetween. I was. It really is something to celebrate. All the roadblocks overcome to get to where you are. Truly celebrate you! Meant to say as far as the Mirlax. Once you start having stools, you can better balance how many you need to avoid being stopped up.
I am so happy for you. Even with the swelling I am seeing wonderful changes. To know we won't have to figure out what clothes to buy to cover that hanging sack that was always in the way and made us appear larger than we really are. Wow.......
I will be cheering you on as you start a new part of your journey!
I am so happy for you. Even with the swelling I am seeing wonderful changes. To know we won't have to figure out what clothes to buy to cover that hanging sack that was always in the way and made us appear larger than we really are. Wow.......
I will be cheering you on as you start a new part of your journey!
December 15, 2015
What you posted is the most insightful that I've read on this site. I feel the same way; I'm not looking to try to look years younger, I just want to look better and have my clothes fit.
December 15, 2015
camillesingleton, thank you for such a lovely compliment. It means so much to me that it is relatable. I struggled with what title line to use to find others stuck in this vacuum of tummy tuck world. When I first went to the doctor to find out what could be done and heard the word panniculectomy, I was stumped honestly. Not all Drs take the time to fully explain things. They assume patients already know, have poor bedside manners and move to fast in and out of room. In my case, having lost alot of weight, the PS looked at me differently. Bottom line was that when I started researching the panni, I found a tornado of misinformation. SO many patients were confusing the tummy tuck (abdminoplasty -for others reading) and the panniculectomy as the same thing. Even many posting reviews in the wrong section. At first even I was getting them confused and did the same thing until I research more and corrected it.
And as I read, more and more people, at some point became distressed or upset their plastic surgeon had botched the surgery because their tummy was not flat or had fat depositis in places assumed would be gone. Just to find out the procedure they had in fact was not a TT but a panniculectomy. Reading through the questions Drs answered when photos were posted with questions, would hear back, "sorry, what you had was not a tummy tuck" You can feel their disappointment in the words that yet another patient went to surgery not understanding the procedure and coming out really hurt things were not better explained.
What bothers me is that this reaction is mostly due to the fact a panniculectomy is not celebrated. It is looked at as the unwanted step child in a home almost perfect except for you, type of thing. How sad. No matter how you lost the weight, or how a person's body developed an overhang of skin, becoming free of that is a major benchmark of life to celebrate. I dare say many women could in fact skip the TT altogether if we could look at our bodies realistically and with a measure of acceptance.
We should be hosting panniculectomy going away parties, that are all about reclaiming a more natural state of a woman's body. Share stories about the life that led to the weight gain and the journey taken to get to this wonderful point in life.
Of all the research I did here on Realself and many other sites, the same theme came up over and over again. A panniculectomy is not embraced as a surgery of choice but one people have to "settle" for. Hey plastic surgery world...wake up. It is okay to choose it, better yet, it's okay to skip the TT and reject it as an over the top procedure of those of us just wanting to get back to a healthier anatomic shape. How exciting is that.
You camillesingleton are the future of both physically and mental healthy woman/person others should aspire to be. Boldly accepting themselves and wanting to support a life that is in balance. And you are right. What are the motivations...health si the best one. Yup you and I agree. I just wanted to not need a gameplan for each outfit. Having to skip any short tops that are not quite long enough to hide the flappy bird on the belly. I used to stand in the mirror and hold up my pannis fold and imagine what it would be like to not have that in the way of what needed to be done. Having a huge flap of skin and fat plop out of the sides of underware is a downward pull on self esteem. Forget any sexy panties. I actually remember hating my body and feeling shame. Even after all the wonderful weightloss, I felt like I was being held back, as if true joy would be on hold forever.
Thankfully that level of self loathing was dismissed and I got focused on health. And battling skin infections, bladder problems from the weight of the pannis fold, stuffing into clothes, and finding ways to maneuver it during intamacy...........I got focused on the health advantages of being rid of it. In the process found myself excited, dancing around joyfully at the surgery date announcement and happily went on to prepare for my transformation.
So jump forward. I came to Realself looking for info. Experiences of others and their journey. Just to find a disjointed mess of reviews, full of confusion and focus on the panniculectomy not being enough. Not even invited to the adult table in the journey of beauty.
Well I want to encourage other like you. Let's celebrate, rave, jump for joy and acknowledge this wonderful event. No need to chase down phantom images of things that don't last. We are going to be sexy and desirable and very much still in the hot bod category.
You are a wonderful lady. I celebrate your surgery with you and we can give eachother hot fashion tips when all the swelling goes down. STAY BEAUTIFUL, you are enough, you are amazing, you are what is wonderful in women!
And as I read, more and more people, at some point became distressed or upset their plastic surgeon had botched the surgery because their tummy was not flat or had fat depositis in places assumed would be gone. Just to find out the procedure they had in fact was not a TT but a panniculectomy. Reading through the questions Drs answered when photos were posted with questions, would hear back, "sorry, what you had was not a tummy tuck" You can feel their disappointment in the words that yet another patient went to surgery not understanding the procedure and coming out really hurt things were not better explained.
What bothers me is that this reaction is mostly due to the fact a panniculectomy is not celebrated. It is looked at as the unwanted step child in a home almost perfect except for you, type of thing. How sad. No matter how you lost the weight, or how a person's body developed an overhang of skin, becoming free of that is a major benchmark of life to celebrate. I dare say many women could in fact skip the TT altogether if we could look at our bodies realistically and with a measure of acceptance.
We should be hosting panniculectomy going away parties, that are all about reclaiming a more natural state of a woman's body. Share stories about the life that led to the weight gain and the journey taken to get to this wonderful point in life.
Of all the research I did here on Realself and many other sites, the same theme came up over and over again. A panniculectomy is not embraced as a surgery of choice but one people have to "settle" for. Hey plastic surgery world...wake up. It is okay to choose it, better yet, it's okay to skip the TT and reject it as an over the top procedure of those of us just wanting to get back to a healthier anatomic shape. How exciting is that.
You camillesingleton are the future of both physically and mental healthy woman/person others should aspire to be. Boldly accepting themselves and wanting to support a life that is in balance. And you are right. What are the motivations...health si the best one. Yup you and I agree. I just wanted to not need a gameplan for each outfit. Having to skip any short tops that are not quite long enough to hide the flappy bird on the belly. I used to stand in the mirror and hold up my pannis fold and imagine what it would be like to not have that in the way of what needed to be done. Having a huge flap of skin and fat plop out of the sides of underware is a downward pull on self esteem. Forget any sexy panties. I actually remember hating my body and feeling shame. Even after all the wonderful weightloss, I felt like I was being held back, as if true joy would be on hold forever.
Thankfully that level of self loathing was dismissed and I got focused on health. And battling skin infections, bladder problems from the weight of the pannis fold, stuffing into clothes, and finding ways to maneuver it during intamacy...........I got focused on the health advantages of being rid of it. In the process found myself excited, dancing around joyfully at the surgery date announcement and happily went on to prepare for my transformation.
So jump forward. I came to Realself looking for info. Experiences of others and their journey. Just to find a disjointed mess of reviews, full of confusion and focus on the panniculectomy not being enough. Not even invited to the adult table in the journey of beauty.
Well I want to encourage other like you. Let's celebrate, rave, jump for joy and acknowledge this wonderful event. No need to chase down phantom images of things that don't last. We are going to be sexy and desirable and very much still in the hot bod category.
You are a wonderful lady. I celebrate your surgery with you and we can give eachother hot fashion tips when all the swelling goes down. STAY BEAUTIFUL, you are enough, you are amazing, you are what is wonderful in women!
December 15, 2015
Thank you for replying. It's kind of freaky are we long lost twins?! You feel exactly as I do. I see all these 20 year olds getting TT now and wonder how they are going to cope years later as they age. A nurse (not where I'm going for the Panni) told me that I'd have to get a sleeve first. I don't want to do that; I'm ok with my body except for that fatty apron. I don't have high blood pressure or cholesterol - I even date a lot younger men! I'm NOT a cougar though, lol. I think men like me because I'm happy with ME and that includes my size. It's my own vanity that doesn't accept that I don't look good in clothes and because of that, I try to cover the apron. I'm not looking for weight loss from the procedure, but I know my pant size will go down since I won't have that big roll. I don't diet (try to eat fairly healthy - I'm not a cola drinker or much alcohol), but there are exercises that I do and I have an eliptical at home. I'd rather tone up/firm up than diet and have hanging skin.
Keep us posted on your recovery; I know you'll tell it like it is and it really is important not to sugar coat anything. I also have done a lot of research and you're right, people are getting the procedures all mixed up.
Keep us posted on your recovery; I know you'll tell it like it is and it really is important not to sugar coat anything. I also have done a lot of research and you're right, people are getting the procedures all mixed up.
December 17, 2015
You are gonna look fabulous...LOOKS LIKE HE DID A GREAT JOB. Everybody has a bad day...maybe he had fight with wifey that morning. Best to you...it already looks good.
December 24, 2015
Ha ha, I just read this. SO funny. You know after that initial post I was pretty upset. But at the 2nd post op and 3rd he was so different and really redeemed himself. I didn't think it possible. But his staff filled in the blanks, doesn't hurt he gave me back a belly button when he doesn't do that normally, and we had a chance to have a normal discussion. He even admitted to not being liked most of the time and was surprised I bothered to initiate a talk. Hmmm, well I am a bit outspoken and passionate. Oh and it turned out I really let him have it as I went under upset with him. My last thought was of how his office botched communication. I wondered...how much did I say and yell.....??? Apparently I was blunt and he heard loud and clear. Gosh..do people really get that belligerent when under.....??? But thank you...each day I smile a bit wider...soon my face will hurt from smiling so hard. :)
July 8, 2016
My mom had a thing that goes on top of toilet seat to make it higher. She didn't need to go up and down that far to pee.
UPDATED FROM ptz2015
14 days post
Panniculectomy - 14 days Post Op
ptz2015December 17, 2015
Hi everyone,
Checking in to update everyone on my 2nd post of visit. But before I get into that. There is something important to discuss.....BELLY BUTTONS. For some reason while searching this site, over and over again there are mixed messages as to what happens with our belly button during a panniculectomy. Many report having lost theirs altogether, while others state theirs was lowered to such a degree it was nearly in the pubic space. Even more confusing is the fact people have posted questions to Drs and the responses have been inconsistent and down right misguiding. So for the record here is how it goes!!
Standard, you will indeed lose your belly button in the process of your panniculectomy, or it may move downward significantly. Where the confusion comes from is that there are a select few Drs who will take the time to pull a belly button back through, or use alternate incision style to leave it untouched. But the most common practice is for it to come off with all the excessive kin and fat. Keep in mind, every patient presents differently and there can be something unique in you anatomy or size of pannis that creates circumstances that dictate action one way or the other. Be very blunt and straightforward when speaking to your surgeon and make sure you understand the method he/she will use and if you will have a belly button or not, and where it will be placed. This is important, because the level of shock and trauma that can occur when you wake up to suddenly have no belly button can be intense. Even with advance knowledge there is a period of loss as one tries to resolve what is seen in the mirror—celebrating a smaller, less hindered self, against a abdomen that appears alien to some extent.
Onto my 2nd post op visit-
It went fairly good. I got both abdominal drains out. It was wonderful to be free of at least a few of the drains. My hip to hip incision is healing well. Dr was not ready to pull out any stitches, staples or surgical mesh. Deciding to wait another week until he felt secure. Next week all of that comes out along with the one in my thighs.
Onto part two....I have a belly button. Yup, I do. I was told I would not have one. The nurses that assisted him said they were stunned. According to even his claim specialist, he has done that very rarely. Why? He just didn't want me to wake up with another thing to be disfigured with. My scarring from accidents is extensive. He took some mercy on me and I am grateful. I have 2 special needs boys that take alot out of me. I do it alone with no family and no friends as I am sitting bed side in the hospital with my boys alot. I guess it was a Christmas gift. I am humbled and know I am very lucky. So the pictures I post are ones that show me with a glorious belly button.
I am wearing my binder less and can switch to a Spanx type garment. The swelling is still quite bad but improving and if you bend over alot it gets worse fast. So do what you can to avoid that .
I am wiped out. Took my 1st shower which was awesome, but it did take alot out of me. As always, feel free to ask questions. I will do all I can to answer. Supporting eachother is important.
Happy Healing to all!!!!
Checking in to update everyone on my 2nd post of visit. But before I get into that. There is something important to discuss.....BELLY BUTTONS. For some reason while searching this site, over and over again there are mixed messages as to what happens with our belly button during a panniculectomy. Many report having lost theirs altogether, while others state theirs was lowered to such a degree it was nearly in the pubic space. Even more confusing is the fact people have posted questions to Drs and the responses have been inconsistent and down right misguiding. So for the record here is how it goes!!
Standard, you will indeed lose your belly button in the process of your panniculectomy, or it may move downward significantly. Where the confusion comes from is that there are a select few Drs who will take the time to pull a belly button back through, or use alternate incision style to leave it untouched. But the most common practice is for it to come off with all the excessive kin and fat. Keep in mind, every patient presents differently and there can be something unique in you anatomy or size of pannis that creates circumstances that dictate action one way or the other. Be very blunt and straightforward when speaking to your surgeon and make sure you understand the method he/she will use and if you will have a belly button or not, and where it will be placed. This is important, because the level of shock and trauma that can occur when you wake up to suddenly have no belly button can be intense. Even with advance knowledge there is a period of loss as one tries to resolve what is seen in the mirror—celebrating a smaller, less hindered self, against a abdomen that appears alien to some extent.
Onto my 2nd post op visit-
It went fairly good. I got both abdominal drains out. It was wonderful to be free of at least a few of the drains. My hip to hip incision is healing well. Dr was not ready to pull out any stitches, staples or surgical mesh. Deciding to wait another week until he felt secure. Next week all of that comes out along with the one in my thighs.
Onto part two....I have a belly button. Yup, I do. I was told I would not have one. The nurses that assisted him said they were stunned. According to even his claim specialist, he has done that very rarely. Why? He just didn't want me to wake up with another thing to be disfigured with. My scarring from accidents is extensive. He took some mercy on me and I am grateful. I have 2 special needs boys that take alot out of me. I do it alone with no family and no friends as I am sitting bed side in the hospital with my boys alot. I guess it was a Christmas gift. I am humbled and know I am very lucky. So the pictures I post are ones that show me with a glorious belly button.
I am wearing my binder less and can switch to a Spanx type garment. The swelling is still quite bad but improving and if you bend over alot it gets worse fast. So do what you can to avoid that .
I am wiped out. Took my 1st shower which was awesome, but it did take alot out of me. As always, feel free to ask questions. I will do all I can to answer. Supporting eachother is important.
Happy Healing to all!!!!
Replies (10)
December 28, 2015
In a ball park, what do you think it has cost you out of pocket? Medicare is paying for my panning on Jan 27, but I'm really worried about post op costs. We're already behind financially because of Christmas, just can't stand much more!
December 29, 2015
Hi,
I wish I could tell you that, but I have not seen a final bill. Your post-op care is covered under the surgery. The office visits have been no additional cost for me. I am not sure at what point that will change. But as a standard, when you have surgery the pot-op visits are no charge. Ask you PS how many visits are covered under surgery. I have had several extra visits due to complications. Today will be another one for him to check out a seroma that has brewed. Saying that however, I have had a huge expense in Home Health aid. I have no family or friends who can help me recover, so I had to hire a service to provide the critical support needed. That was costly. But if you have family that can be with you everyday. Also if you are having to be inpatient for more than one night medicare may also cover that.
Oh I am so excited for you. Don't forget to specifically ask your PS about your belly button if that has not come up. Every Dr is different. Please feel free to message or ask any questions you have. I will do everything I can to answer them as they are for me.
Stay in touch, here for you! SO AWESOME, New Year, New YOU!
I wish I could tell you that, but I have not seen a final bill. Your post-op care is covered under the surgery. The office visits have been no additional cost for me. I am not sure at what point that will change. But as a standard, when you have surgery the pot-op visits are no charge. Ask you PS how many visits are covered under surgery. I have had several extra visits due to complications. Today will be another one for him to check out a seroma that has brewed. Saying that however, I have had a huge expense in Home Health aid. I have no family or friends who can help me recover, so I had to hire a service to provide the critical support needed. That was costly. But if you have family that can be with you everyday. Also if you are having to be inpatient for more than one night medicare may also cover that.
Oh I am so excited for you. Don't forget to specifically ask your PS about your belly button if that has not come up. Every Dr is different. Please feel free to message or ask any questions you have. I will do everything I can to answer them as they are for me.
Stay in touch, here for you! SO AWESOME, New Year, New YOU!
December 30, 2015
I am scheduled to have my panniculectomy on January 4th, my stepson is getting married on January 9th, do you think i will be well enough to attend? I wish they could remove my drain on the 8th so i won't have to wear that to the wedding!! Lol. Your progress looks great!
December 31, 2015
That is a hard one. In all honestly, it may be a stretch to go to something that major so soon. Unless you are having a drainless surgery, you will have 2 drains. It can take 2 weeks to have them removed. It actually took me more than 2 weeks and 3 weeks to get the last of 4 drains removed.
I don't know how much skin you need removed. Depending on that it could be a rough first week. I had trouble just getting up out of a chair and needed a walker for the first 4 days. Ask your PS about this one. Your in a difficult place. If the wedding is local and nerby, perhaps you could slide in for actual vows and slide out. Also think about having open surgery sites and drains in such a public setting where infections and bacteria are easy to get. And keeping up with drains is a challenge. My immediate gut reaction is to say, unfortunately you may have to miss it, as sad as that would be. But your Dr may have some guidance, especially if you are spending time inpatient. Let's hope something will work out. I would worry for you because that 1st week is the hardest.
On the other side, congrats on your son's wedding. What an exciting wonderful time for the family. Why is it a Mommy's needs are always just short of the top of the list. No matter how old our children get, we manage to nearly kill ourselves for them. It's what we do. I pray all goes well, the wedding be a wonderful celebration and everyone stay healthy.
Let me know how you are doing and I am here to answer any questions. And for any sensitive things, message me privately if you desire. The wedding timing is the worst, but your surgery is a life event to notate to get your body back! AWESOME investment and I applaud you for taking the time to do that for yourself. You deserve it.
PS. Ak your Dr to make the drain tubes long enough that you can secure them without pinning them on clothing. Having them held by say a neck strap key chain is a great help when going the bathroom so they don't swing or drop down with your pants etc. Just a thought. My leg drains were so short it restricted my movements and clothing I could wear.
Yeah for you!
I don't know how much skin you need removed. Depending on that it could be a rough first week. I had trouble just getting up out of a chair and needed a walker for the first 4 days. Ask your PS about this one. Your in a difficult place. If the wedding is local and nerby, perhaps you could slide in for actual vows and slide out. Also think about having open surgery sites and drains in such a public setting where infections and bacteria are easy to get. And keeping up with drains is a challenge. My immediate gut reaction is to say, unfortunately you may have to miss it, as sad as that would be. But your Dr may have some guidance, especially if you are spending time inpatient. Let's hope something will work out. I would worry for you because that 1st week is the hardest.
On the other side, congrats on your son's wedding. What an exciting wonderful time for the family. Why is it a Mommy's needs are always just short of the top of the list. No matter how old our children get, we manage to nearly kill ourselves for them. It's what we do. I pray all goes well, the wedding be a wonderful celebration and everyone stay healthy.
Let me know how you are doing and I am here to answer any questions. And for any sensitive things, message me privately if you desire. The wedding timing is the worst, but your surgery is a life event to notate to get your body back! AWESOME investment and I applaud you for taking the time to do that for yourself. You deserve it.
PS. Ak your Dr to make the drain tubes long enough that you can secure them without pinning them on clothing. Having them held by say a neck strap key chain is a great help when going the bathroom so they don't swing or drop down with your pants etc. Just a thought. My leg drains were so short it restricted my movements and clothing I could wear.
Yeah for you!
December 31, 2015
Hi there,
Congratulations on your stepson's upcoming wedding. I wouldn't overdo it so soon after your procedure. You might want to check out this forum that discusses recovery times after a panni. Also, discuss this with your surgeon.
Take care of yourself.
July 8, 2016
Wow thanks ! Was not told ALL of the "belly button possibilities".
I needed this.
Hmmmm.....
I needed this.
Hmmmm.....
I am happy for you!!!!!!!!