Getting Rid of Loose Skin

Sometimes, even after losing a lot of weight, a person doesn’t feel quite “fit.” One possibility that can adversely affect a person’s body image is loose skin that hangs below the belly where fat used hold it taut. People who have just lost a lot of weight through diet and exercise, a gastric bypass, or even post-pregnancy, can end up with lost of unsightly loose skin. In addition to looking bad, this loose skin can cause a host of health problems, such as back problems, rashes and other skin problems. One solution to this problem is a procedure called panniculectomy, which removes excess loose skin from the body.

The Panniculectomy Procedure

A panniculectomy can be a lengthy process, up to several hours. Due to the length and invasiveness of the surgery, it usually performed under general anesthesia, so you’ll be totally asleep for the duration. The process begins with a series of incisions. The first is made near the pubic bone, and the second, a horizontal cut, is made nearby – through this second incision, the excess loose skin is removed with minimal damage. The leftover skin is pulled tight and sutured to hold its shape.

Recovery after Panniculectomy Surgery

After a panniculectomy, you’ll start your recuperation process in a hospital. The hospital stay ranges from one day to a week, depending on the severity of the procedure. As with most operations, you can expect some pain and swelling in the affected regions. In addition, you’ll need to wear a support garment, and will have to sponge bathe to protect the area of the panniculectomy. Within two weeks, most people are able to return to work, though a full recovery takes a few months.

Panniculectomy Costs

As with many potentially dangerous weight-related conditions, insurance companies will sometimes cover the cost of a panniculectomy. If you’re looking to have a panniculectomy for cosmetic reasons only, you can expect to pay quite a bit, at least $8,000, possibly as much as $10,000. Consult your surgeon and insurance provider for exact figures.

Possible Dangers of the Panniculectomy

As with any cosmetic surgery, there are some risks and potential problems that can occur after a panniculectomy. The most common side effects include infection and bleeding. While some scarring is expected, sometimes excessive scarring can indicate a problem, and you should contact your doctor.