Panniculectomy

• Removes Excess Skin and Fat Tissues: Panniculectomy removes the panniculus in the lower part of the stomach for a smoother and more sculpted.
• Reduces Strain on The Back: Excess weight can provoke stress on the back, causing discomfort and back pain. Removing that excess weight relieves this strain and consequently makes you pain-free.
• Reduces Lower Abdomen Skin Irritation, Skin Erosions, and Rashes: This procedure resolves skin irritation, skin erosions, and rashes that are common in those with panniculus. The cause is poor hygiene and reduced aeration of areas beneath the excess skin.
• Allows Increased Physical Activity and Further Weight Loss: This treatment can improve your range of motion, allowing you to be less sedentary and partake in more physical activity.
• Increased Confidence
• Removes Stretch Marks: Panniculectomy eradicates stretch marks on the lower abdomen contributing to a smoother, more sculpted figure.

• The results of Panniculectomy are permanent. As you age, the skin will invariably sag owing to the reduction in collagen and elastin content of the skin. A healthy lifestyle with a well-balanced diet and regular exercise is the best method to retain your results.

When considering a panniculectomy Los Angeles patients should keep these important preparation steps in mind:

• Undergo complete medical examination and testing.
• Ensure you understand how the operation works, including the potential risks, complications, and benefits.
• Explore and set the right expectations for your results.
• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, gingko biloba, and other blood thinners.
• Quit smoking at least three weeks before the procedure.
• Your surgeon will provide instructions concerning food and drink regulations for the day before your procedure.

• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Site of Surgery: The lower abdomen
• Anesthetics: General anesthesia
• Step-By-Step Guide:
• Your surgical team will administer general anesthesia
• The surgeon will make a horizontal incision between the umbilicus and the pubic hairline.
• The surgeon will remove the excess skin and fat.
• The surgeon will pull down and suture the remaining skin together.
• The belly button is removed or repositioned.
• The surgeon may place a drain to prevent excess fluid accumulation.

The procedure usually takes 3 to 5 hours, and you can return home either the day of the surgery or a few days after. Your provider may put a compression garment on you to support the abdomen and minimize swelling. Full recovery and best results should take 4 to 6 weeks.

Here are things to do when you get back home after this surgery.

• Start walking as soon as possible. Movement reduces swelling and the risk of Deep Venous Thrombosis.
• Rest and allow time for your body to recover.
• Follow your surgeons' instructions about suture and drain care.
• Increase intake of fruits and vegetables to prevent constipation.
• Sleep with a pillow under the knees to help reduce the risk of your sutures breaking.

Here are some things not to do following a panniculectomy.

• Don’t lift any heavy weight (>5 pounds) for at least six weeks post-op.
• Don’t take any blood thinners for at least two weeks post-op.
• Avoid alcohol for at least 2 weeks post-op.
• No smoking as it delays wound healing and can increase the risk of complications.
• Don’t drive for at least three weeks following the surgery.
• Avoid strenuous activity and exercise for at least six weeks.
• Avoid exposing the scar to sunlight. Use sunblock if you can’t avoid sunlight.