A panniculectomy is when excess abdominal skin is surgically removed. The excess abdominal skin and adipose tissue is called a pannus and in severe cases hangs down over the genitals or thighs. It is often associated with massive weight loss or obesity. This excess tissue can make it difficult to maintain good hygiene along the folds in the skin. It can also make it difficult to walk and perform other physical activities. The difference between a panniculectomy and abdominoplasty is a panniculectomy only removes the apron of the skin and there is no undermining of tissue or tightening of muscles. It is often considered medically necessary and can be covered by most insurance policies.

Recovery from a panniculectomy can vary from 2-4 weeks depending on the size of pannus being removed. The risks and possible complications may include bleeding, swelling, infection, pain, loss of sensation, hematoma, seroma, wound healing difficulty, scarring, blood clots in deep veins that can lead to pulmonary embolism.

Your surgeon will discuss all risks and complications related to the procedure in detail during the consultation.