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How do you treat abdominal pannus?

Surgical removal is the only way to get rid of the panniculus, which doesn't respond to diet or exercise. Although weight loss can help decrease the fatty deposits, extra skin often remains behind.

seton.net - Panniculectomy Can Treat Extra Skin Below the Belly Button - Ascension

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Pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations can create a pocket of skin and fat in the lower abdomen. This paunch is known as the panniculus, and its appearance can become more pronounced with age. A panniculectomy is a surgical procedure that removes this excess skin and fatty tissue for a slimmer stomach. A panniculectomy is commonly included with a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty. Contact us online today to learn more about your options for a panniculectomy, with or without a tummy tuck. The Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery of Central Texas helps men and women from Austin, Round Rock and throughout Texas.

Benefits of a Panniculectomy

The panniculus is made solely of excess skin and fatty tissue deposits. In some cases, the panniculus may be the result of stretched out skin and excess fat deposits following a pregnancy. Weight gain and obesity can also cause the formation of a panniculus.

There are five different grades of panniculus:

Grade 1 panniculus will just cover the pubic hair line, up to the mons pubis

Grade 2 fully covers the genitals

Grade 3 extends enough to cover the upper thigh

Grade 4 reaches down to the mid-thigh

Grade 5 covers the knees or even lower

A pronounced panniculus can cause health problems like skin chafing and even ulcers. Physical discomfort is common with more serious grades, including back strain from carrying extra weight in the belly. Severe grades can even hamper walking and normal movement. Surgical removal is the only way to get rid of the panniculus, which doesn’t respond to diet or exercise. Although weight loss can help decrease the fatty deposits, extra skin often remains behind.

Understanding the Procedure

Although a panniculectomy is similar in many ways to a tummy tuck there are differences as well. The main difference is that a tummy tuck tightens loose abdominal muscles in order to restore structure to the belly. A panniculus is only fat and skin tissue, so a panniculectomy doesn’t impact the abdominal muscles. Since the two procedures are both intended to slim down the tummy, they are often performed at the same time. If muscle laxity is contributing to the appearance of a prominent belly, a tummy tuck may be recommended instead. In some cases, liposuction may be included for fine tuning and removing additional fatty deposits. However, liposuction alone is not enough to remove a higher grade of panniculus. It’s important to understand that a panniculectomy is not a solution for weight loss. In fact, this procedure offers the best results for people who have already reached their target weight. It’s a good idea to maintain a steady weight for several months before surgery.

Recovery and Results

Most people experience some initial discomfort after a panniculectomy. It may feel painful to stand all the way upright at first, since that motion puts strain on the repaired area. You should notice a change in your appearance immediately. As healing continues, your final results become more visible. Most people are able to return to work about two weeks after the procedure. A panniculectomy from the Institute of Reconstructive Plastic Surgery of Central Texas will help resolve the appearance of a prominent lower belly by removing excess skin and tissue. After the procedure, you can expect your low abdomen to look flatter and smoother. Most people also notice a new boost in their self-esteem after their panniculectomy because they feel more positive about their appearance.

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