Body Contouring News
After losing over 80 pounds, you finally feel healthier and more confident. But still struggle with heavy excess skin around your lower abdomen. You’ve heard of friends getting a tummy tuck, but don’t know if that’s right for you. At your consultation your surgeon recommends a panniculectomy instead
And you say, “Wait… what is the difference between a panniculectomy and a tummy tuck?”
What Is A Panniculectomy?
Functional Removal Of Excess Skin
A panniculectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess hanging skin and tissue from the lower abdomen, commonly referred to as a pannus.
This procedure is often recommended after:
- Significant weight loss
- Bariatric surgery
- Pregnancy related skin stretching
A panniculectomy focuses primarily on improving comfort, hygiene, mobility, and irritation caused by excess skin.
What Is An Abdominoplasty?
Cosmetic Abdominal Contouring
An abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of the abdomen by:
- Removing excess skin
- Tightening abdominal muscles
- Improving waistline contour
- Creating a flatter abdominal profile
Unlike panniculectomy, abdominoplasty focuses heavily on aesthetics and contour enhancement.
What Is The Main Difference?
A panniculectomy is primarily functional.
An abdominoplasty is primarily cosmetic.
Patients who experience:
- Skin irritation
- Difficulty exercising
- Excess lower abdominal skin
- Hygiene concerns
may benefit from panniculectomy.
Patients seeking:
- A flatter stomach
- Tightened abdominal muscles
- More sculpted contour
- Improved waist definition
often choose abdominoplasty.
Can They Be Combined?
Yes. In some cases, patients may benefit from combining functional skin removal with cosmetic contouring techniques for more comprehensive results.
Every surgical plan is customized based on anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals.
Call today to schedule your body contouring consultation at Coastal Plastic Surgery Institute.
