The Procedure – Louisville Plastic Surgery Consultants

Description of Procedure

A panniculectomy is a surgical procedure that reduces unwanted skin and fat from the abdominal region. This procedure is commonly performed after an individual has lost an excessive amount of body weight and is experiencing difficultly with hygiene and ambulatory issues. The standard panniculectomy involves a reduction of skin and fat beneath the belly button and includes a closure with surgical staples. Dr. Majzoub performs many variations of this procedure to meet each individual’s goals. Incisions are kept in the bikini region and hidden by your underwear. The procedure generally takes 1.5 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.

Variations of Panniculectomy

Extended Panniculectomy with Removal of Umbilicus
This procedure is similar to the standard panniculectomy but Dr. Majzoub will address fat and skin both below and above the belly button. The belly button is not preserved and is removed, this allows the surgeon to go above this region to remove more fat and skin. Since many individuals are not concerned about their belly button, it is not preserved. The abdominal closure is the same as the standard panniculectomy closure with surgical staples in the bikini region. This procedure generally takes 1.5 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.

Extended Panniculectomy with Preservation of Umbilicus
This procedure was designed to address excess fat and skin in the region both above and below the belly button and in the process preserve the belly button. Dr. Majzoub will reduce unwanted fat and skin over the entire abdominal region and relocate the belly button to its normal anatomic position. The incision line is hidden in the bikini region. This procedure includes a surgical closure with skin sutures. The procedure generally takes 2.5 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.

Recovery

Depending on the patient’s medical history, this procedure is often performed as an outpatient at an outpatient surgical facility. Accommodations can be made to keep an individual overnight should this be anticipated. Patients can return to their normal activities in 3-4 weeks. Patients are encouraged to ambulate shortly after surgery and perform breathing exercises. Three to four small drains will be placed in the lower abdominal region, these will be removed by your surgeon during your post-operative visits. A supportive garment is commonly worn for comfort during the recovery period.

Results

Depending on the amount of skin and soft tissue removed, the results after surgery can be dramatic with a noticeable improvement in abdominal body contour. Swelling in the abdominal region will slowly subside over the next 3 months. The scar is hidden in the panty line and fades with time.

For more information on whether you may be a candidate for a panniculectomy, contact Louisville Plastic Surgery Consultants at 502.899.9996, this procedure may be covered by your insurance. At Louisville Plastic Surgery Consultants our goal is complete patient satisfaction.

Medical Disclaimer: All medical procedures are associated with some degree of anesthetic and operative risks. Surgical results may vary from person to person.Your specific anesthetic and operative risks will be outlined at the time of your consultation.