POSTED UNDER Panniculectomy Reviews
I'm 39, Mom of 3 (13, 15, &17), Lost 120lbs when I Was 19. I've Kept It off for 20 Yrs. Time to Fix my Skin! - Duluth, MN
UPDATED FROM Jen1017
Nearly 3 months post-op
I'm nearly 3 months post-op. I'm so happy with my results. I can't believe how swollen my lower tummy still is. I had my final post-op appointment with Dr. Baertsch and he said it can take up to a whole year until I'm "normal". It's been a great journey. I'm excited how my results will continue to improve.
UPDATED FROM Jen1017
2 weeks and 2 days Post-op
My 2nd drain came out yesterday and WOW do I feel FREE!! I love that feeling. My swelling in the upper part of my torso has lessened and I see a bit of contour. Doctor said my 2 week results are "superb". I'm keeping my binder on 24/7 except for showering. It's like my safety blanket. My incision is healing nicely and I feel so blessed. I was sad and depressed last week, not loving my results. How quickly things took a turn for the better.
Replies (4)
May 16, 2015
Sorry to read insurance denied your surgery. However, congrats to you for moving forward anyway. Fantastic results!

May 16, 2015
Awesome glad your recovery is happening fast! I still have one drain in and it won't be removed until Thursday of next week. That's 31 days safter my surgery. I feel like it's attached it's self to my skin and it a permanent part of my body by now. Crazy


May 18, 2015
l'm in Duluth, just in the the phase of getting photos done and sent for insurance. I WISH my photos looked like yours going to insurance! You looked great before but after surgery you look like a svelte model! Congrats! I hope my journey has a happy ending like yours! I'm going through St. Luke's Plastic Surgery Dept..... Send me some good vibes, skinny mama...... :-)
UPDATED FROM Jen1017
Let the Healing Begin!
I am beyond thrilled with my results. The "after" pictures I've posted are only 2 days post op. I'm sort of in shock. I was able to take my binder off for the first time today and I cried and cried when I saw the results. SO pleased. I've wished, wanted, and waited for this for 20 years. So glad I went for it. And I'm assuming my results will look even better in time because I have so much swelling just now. Thank you, Lord!!! What an amazing opportunity. Thank you to Dr. Andrew Baertsh, and his staff at the Lakewalk Surgery Center in Duluth for the amazing experience. I am at a loss for words. It was one of the most emotional experiences in my life (other than the birth of my children). I was able, for the first time IN MY LIFE to look in the mirror and not hate what I see. I'm so ready to be back on my feet and enjoying life.
Replies (5)


May 2, 2015
To be able to do something just for you after waiting 20 years has to be so satisfying. Congrats on your wonderful results. Please keep us updated. Your journey is quite inspiring.

May 3, 2015
I'm so glad you can feel great about yourself. You already are looking fantastic.
Did you end up getting an abdominoplasty or panniculectemy?

May 3, 2015
Abdominoplasty. I'm so happy with the results. And thanks for the compliment. I feel GREAT!
Replies (5)
Totally agree, Jen1017. Rest is the best thing you can do for yourself after a procedure like this. Having a setback can be so traumatic. Thanks for sharing this important tip.