A panniculectomy is usually done along with a tummy tuck. This is the procedure done to remove hanging skin and fat following a tremendous weight loss. It is different from a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty in that this procedure only removes fat and skin tissue. It does not involve the tightening of the stomach muscles that take place with a tummy tuck. It is also done in connection with other abdominal surgeries including hysterectomies, or hernia repair.
Those who qualify for this procedure have lost a great deal of weight and have finally reached their ideal body size and need to remove the excess skin in order to get better body contour and mobility. These candidate are in otherwise, relative good health, mentally and emotionally. Some women who suffer from some post pregnancy, like extra fat located below the belly button, are also considered good candidates for this procedure. Where they can, doctors combine the panniculectomy with a full or partial tummy tuck.
Some candidates have skin that extends to their knees or down their backs causing other severe health problems. The absolute best candidates are those who have stabilized their weight over the course of a year, have adopted healthy eating and dietary habits, and begun a regimen of regular exercise. People who have undergone a gastric bypass or had lapband surgery should also wait a year until after the obesity issues have subsided somewhat.
Unlike a tummy tuck, the procedure is done in a hospital setting and can take several hours to complete. In very rare instances, the procedure can be done on an outpatient basis. However this is extremely rare, given the risk involved. Hospital stays can last from one day to one week.
During surgery, two incisions are made, one from the sternum to the pubic bone and another across the lower abdomen. All the excess tissue is removed and drains are usually put in place to handle any fluid buildup that might occur. Just like the tummy tuck, this is not an easy recovery. If the two procedures are combined then it may prove even more painful than normal. Therefore it is important to precisely follow all of the doctor's post operation instructions.
The most common complications with this recovery are infection, scarring and excess bleeding. These complications sometimes develop with a tummy tuck as well. However, they are rare. Whenever these things happen contact your doctor immediately.
In choosing a doctor to perform the tummy tuck and or the panniculectomy, make sure he or she is board certified and licensed and has a good reputation in the community. Make sure he or she completely and patiently explains all parts of the procedure as well as pre-operative steps and post-op situations that may develop.
Finally prior to committing to any procedure, talk to your health insurer to determine what if any of the cost will be born by your insurance.
Author Resource:-
Tummy Tuck is a safe and easy procedure. To learn all about Tummy Tucks please visit http://www.TummyTuckGuide.com
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