Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery

Panniculectomy/Abdominoplasty/Tummy Tuck

The abdominal pannus is the loose fold of skin that hangs over the pubis following significant weight loss.  It consists of skin and fat tissue.  Stretching of the rectus muscles (the sit up or "six pack" muscles) to the side may contribute to the fullness in the lower abdomen. Panniculectomy is the term used for the surgical removal of the abdominal pannus.  It uses an incision which passes from hip to hip across the pubis along its lower edge.  The upper incision passes from each hip to the belly button area.  The skin and fat between these surgical incisions is removed.  The expanse of skin above the belly button is loosened from the underlying abdominal muscle.  If the muscles can be tightened, they are pulled to the middle with sutures.  Hernias, which can occur after bariatric surgery, can be repaired as well.  The upper edge is pulled downward to tighten the abdomen.  The belly button is brought through the skin.

The incisions are designed to be hidden in the groin and pubic creases and to be covered by clothes and sportswear.  Multiple layers of sutures are used to close the wound and produce a narrow scar.