Panniculectomy in Atlanta, GA

Following dramatic weight loss, many patients are plagued by an apron of loose skin that hangs in the abdominal region. This condition can lead to numerous health hazards and often requires a specialized surgical procedure called a panniculectomy to correct. The Atlanta Center for Breast and Aesthetic Surgery, led by Dr. Frederick T. Work, Jr., offers panniculectomy for men and women who have undergone dramatic weight loss, such as via bariatric surgery, and who live in and around Atlanta, Buckhead, Vinings and Sandy Springs.

What Is A Panniculectomy?

A panniculectomy is a procedure that is more aggressive than the tummy tuck or abdominoplasty, as it constitutes removal of the apron of loose hanging skin in patients who have undergone dramatic weight loss of over 100 pounds and suffer from medical problems due to the excessive skin. A panniculectomy is not considered a cosmetic procedure as it treats medical conditions caused and complicated by the hanging folds of skin. A panniculectomy may be performed alone or in combination with other procedures, such as a tummy tuck, and its goal is to remove the skin that folds and hangs over the abdomen, called the “pannus” or apron. While the panniculectomy only removes the excess skin and fat required for medical reasons, a tummy tuck may be added to the procedure to tighten the underlying stomach muscles resulting in a flatter silhouette.

Benefits Of A Panniculectomy

An overhanging abdominal pannus often causes rashes and/or infections in the folds of skin that can make daily activities painful and difficult. It also poses challenges when fitting into clothing and can make intimacy difficult if not impossible, in addition to taking a large toll on one’s self-esteem. The primary non-medical benefits of a panniculectomy include improvements in body image and quality of life. A panniculectomy is performed on patients with the goal of alleviating the following symptoms:

• Difficulty performing daily hygiene.
• Yeast infections or cysts in the folds of the skin.
• Lower back pain.
• Inability to comfortably wear clothing.
• Rashes above the pubic area along the groin and hips.

Am I A Candidate For A Panniculectomy?

If you are suffering from medical complications resulting from hanging folds of flesh down the front of your abdomen, extending down to the pubic region or even lower to the thigh area, then you may be the ideal candidate for a panniculectomy. This procedure is a specialized medical procedure for specific candidates only. The best way to determine whether you are eligible for a panniculectomy is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Work.

Realistic Expectations From a Panniculectomy

Removal of excess overhanging tissue is a functional operation designed to relieve medical symptoms caused by an overhanging abdominal pannus, although it naturally also improves self-image and quality of life. Dr. Work stresses that patients must have realistic expectations regarding what this procedure can and cannot accomplish, which you can discuss in your private consultation with Dr. Work.

Panniculectomy Procedure Details

To perform a panniculectomy, Dr. Work utilizes an incision in the lower abdomen to remove excess flesh, often complemented by liposuction. The procedure takes several hours and Dr. Work and his nursing staff will provide you with detailed pre and post-operative instructions so you are fully prepared for your scheduled surgery, but also to ensure that your post-operative recovery is optimally managed for a healthy recovery.

Panniculectomy Recovery

Recovery from a panniculectomy will take several weeks and you may experience discomfort, swelling and a feeling of tightness. It may take some time before you can stand up straight and initially, bending from the waist may be difficult. Dr. Work and his compassionate team of experts will work with you to guide you throughout the entire procedure and to ensure that your healing and recovery process is as comfortable as possible.

How Much Does A Panniculectomy Cost in Atlanta?

A panniculectomy is considered a medical and not a cosmetic procedure; therefore, it is possible that your health insurance will cover it or a portion of your procedure. The Atlanta Center for Breast and Aesthetic Surgery provides affordable financing options through CareCredit® and Prosper® Healthcare Lending for any expenses not covered by insurance. Our office also accepts cash, personal checks, and credit cards.

For patients who have undergone dramatic weight loss and are left with an apron of hanging skin over their lower abdomen leading to medical complications, it may be necessary to undergo a panniculectomy procedure to relieve painful medical symptoms of this condition. Frederick T. Work, Jr. and his team of experts at the Atlanta Center for Breast and Aesthetic Surgery, provide panniculectomies in a safe and nurturing medical environment for residents of the Atlanta, Buckhead, Vinings and Sandy Springs areas in Georgia.