Tummy Tuck vs. Panniculectomy: Which Procedure is Right for You?
Both tummy tucks and panniculectomies are surgical procedures that address excess skin and fat in the abdominal area. The main difference between Tummy Tuck vs. Panniculectomy is the amount of skin and fat they remove.
A pannus refers to an apron of tissue that can develop anywhere on the body. When it occurs on the abdomen, it usually forms a large, hanging flap of skin and fat that can cover the genital area. This is not only unsightly but can also interfere with normal function.
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) also removes excess skin and fat, but it doesn’t target the large, hanging apron of skin like a panniculectomy does. Both procedures treat the entire area from the rib cage to the pubic region. Some surgeons choose not to dissect above the belly button during a panniculectomy, but I prefer to do so to remove the maximum amount of skin and fat.
A panniculectomy is a more extensive procedure, often removing large amounts of skin and fat, sometimes weighing over 10 pounds. While a tummy tuck involves less volume, it’s still a challenging procedure. In both surgeries, I prefer to tighten the abdominal muscles for optimal results.
In conclusion, both a tummy tuck and panniculectomy focus on removing excess skin and fat and repairing the abdominal muscles. However, a panniculectomy is more extensive and may require more surgical time.
THOMAS TREVISANI, MD
BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY
