401.444.SKIN
401.444.SKIN

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  1. What Is Panniculectomy Surgery?
  2. Panniculectomy Candidates
  3. Panniculectomy Procedure Steps
  4. Panniculectomy Results And Recovery
  5. Meet Dr. Roussel
  6. Consultation

What is Panniculectomy Surgery?

Panniculectomy is a plastic surgery procedure that removes hanging, loose skin and fat from the lower stomach. Although panniculectomy addresses many of the same concerns as a tummy tuck, it does not involve tightening the abdominal muscles. It’s typically performed after significant weight loss with the goal of removing excess skin that interferes with hygiene or mobility.

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Panniculectomy Candidates

The best candidates for a panniculectomy procedure are patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and now have excess, hanging skin around the abdomen. This flap of skin can cause symptoms like rash, discomfort, and difficulty wearing certain clothing. It’s often also removed for cosmetic purposes. In order to be considered a good candidate for panniculectomy, you should be in overall good health and able to take time to recover from surgery. You should also be at a healthy and stable weight, meaning if you have more weight to lose or are prone to fluctuations, it may be best to postpone your procedure. During a consultation, Dr. Roussel will carefully examine your medical history and your abdomen to determine if a panniculectomy procedure is best for your needs.

Panniculectomy may be combined with other body contouring procedures based on your circumstances. Some of the most common include the body lift, thigh lift, or liposuction. Dr. Roussel will give you a professional recommendation on the best possible procedure combination during your consultation.

Panniculectomy Procedure Steps

Panniculectomy is typically performed using general anesthesia. Dr. Roussel will begin your procedure by performing an incision horizontally across the pelvic region. Additional incisions may be added vertically along the midsection or around the belly button. Fatty tissue is removed, and the skin is pulled downward and smoothed. Any excess skin is trimmed away and the incisions are closed. You will then be prepared for your recovery at home.

2-3 Weeks

Panniculectomy Results and Recovery

Your recovery from panniculectomy may take about 1-2 weeks. During this time, it’s essential to focus on resting and avoid any intensive activity. You will also need to avoid activities that would put strain on your stomach like bending over or lifting heavy objects. Dr. Roussel will provide detailed instructions on managing swelling, following up, and reporting any complications. One of the most important recovery items is wearing your compression garment to aid healing and minimize swelling.

Swelling will begin to go down significantly within 2-3 weeks, but it may take several more for any residual swelling to subside. You will begin to see your results within 2-3 weeks, with a noticeably trimmer and more contoured abdomen. When performed by an expert plastic surgeon such as Dr. Roussel, panniculectomy can last for many years.

Meet Dr. Roussel

COSMETIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGEON

Dr. Lauren Roussel is a cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon dedicated to exceptionally natural results and a positive, life-changing experience. With a warm and welcoming approach to surgery, she is a premier choice for patients in the Providence area and beyond.

Meet the doctor
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Consultation

If you’re ready to meet with Dr. Lauren Roussel and learn more, call (401) 444-SKIN to schedule a consultation.