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Panniculectomyin Akron, OH

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Excessive hanging skin can result from rapid weight loss, form after giving birth, or due to the effects of aging, causing the skin to create unsightly folds and rolls.

The extra weight and skin can hinder patients from pursuing a healthy lifestyle and can impede mobility.

One area where this excess skin is common is in the pannus, also known as the abdominal apron. This area refers to the excess fat and skin located in the lower abdomen, which often hangs just below the beltline. The pannus can cause back pain and hygiene problems, making day-to-day tasks difficult as it hangs in the way. Expert plastic surgeon Dr. Pedersen can perform tummy tuck in Akron for patients requiring the removal of excess skin.

What is a Panniculectomy?

At Plastic Surgeons of Akron panniculectomy is offered as a type of abdominoplasty procedure which may be appropriate to remove this excess skin. The panniculectomy Akron plastic surgeon Dr. Pedersen offers can be performed as a stand-alone procedure or combined with a traditional tummy tuck, body contouring, or other procedures such as a thigh lift.

Akron Panniculectomy

Am I a Candidate for a Panniculectomy?

If you have excess skin hanging around the midsection that just won’t go away, you might be an ideal candidate for a panniculectomy in Akron from Dr. Pedersen. Ideal candidates are those whose weight has remained stable for the past six months and who are in good overall health.

To determine if a panniculectomy is right for you, consider the following factors:

  • I am healthy
  • I don't smoke
  • I am physically active and maintain a healthy diet
  • The excess skin is causing issues such as back pain, skin irritations, and other mobility problems

If you have recently had gastric bypass surgery or adjustable gastric banding surgery, then you are advised to wait for at least one year before undergoing the Plastic Surgeons of Akron panniculectomy to ensure that your body weight has stabilized and that any health issues arising from obesity, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, are under control.

What can I Expect During Panniculectomy Surgery?

At Plastic Surgeons of Akron, panniculectomy surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Pedersen will tailor the procedure to you and your aesthetic goals during your consultation. Once the areas of excess skin have been removed, Dr. Pedersen contours the remaining skin, closing incisions and leaving you with a smoother and more taut appearance.

Recovery After Panniculectomy

A panniculectomy is an out-patient procedure, but the extent of skin removal will determine if an overnight observation is needed.

Recovery includes at least eight weeks of refraining from heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity. You are encouraged to wear a compression garment to support the surgery's healing effort and provide the patient with comfort post-surgery. Follow-up appointments are required to ensure you are healing correctly and there are no complications from the surgery.

It is essential to have realistic expectations about the outcome of your surgery. Everybody heals differently depending on general health age and other factors. There will be noticeable improvements in both physical and personal hygiene because, with the removal of excess skin, the patient will no longer experience skin rashes, odor, and ulcers hiding within the folds of the skin.

Your Panniculectomy Results

Once you have recovered from your surgery, your benefits will include an increased ability for physical activity, clothes will look better, and you may get a boost in self-confidence from your new contoured appearance.

A great result can only be achieved with great communication with your surgeon. We can answer your questions and work with you to decide if a panniculectomy is the right option for you. Upon speaking with Dr. Pedersen, you may also consider other procedures to have done at the same time such as traditional tummy tuck, body contouring, or other procedures such as a thigh lift.

Schedule Your Akron Panniculectomy Consultation with Dr. Pedersen Today

We encourage you to call our office to schedule your consultation with Dr. Pedersen. Discover the answers to your questions about panniculectomy and other options that may be right for you.

Dr. Pederen’s experience includes nearly 20-years in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. He specializes in breast revision surgeries and has extensive experience in post-weight loss body contouring, mommy makeovers, and abdominal procedures.

Akron plastic surgeon Dr. Pedersen

Panniculectomy FAQs

Who should consider abdominoplasty?

Many people who have lost a significant amount of weight find that they are left with excess hanging skin. Ideal candidates are those whose weight has remained stable for the past six (6) months and who are in good overall health.

What is the difference between a tummy tuck and a panniculectomy?

Both procedures remove excess skin. A tummy tuck is considered elective surgery because it focuses on the shape and contour of the body. At the same time, a panniculectomy is regarded as a medical necessity because of the physical need to remove excess skin in the patient's best interest.

What are the complications of a panniculectomy?

Invasive surgical procedures carry certain risks and complications, and they may include: swelling, numbness, bleeding at the incision site, persistent pain, and others. Patients will work with Dr. Pedersen to determine the optimal post-surgical care to achieve the best results.

How much does a panniculectomy cost?

Every procedure is different. The cost is determined by the patient's needs and overall health. These procedures are considered elective and may not be covered by health insurance. However, no-interest financing is available through CareCredit. We do accept VISA, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.

What is recovery like after panniculectomy surgery?

It is advised to expect eight weeks of recovery time and refrain from heavy lifting, strenuous physical activity, and operating heavy machinery. During the initial recovery phase which typically lasts several weeks, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Patients are advised to wear an elastic compression garment that supports the tissues as they heal. Many patients are back to work within about three weeks of the surgery although it may take several months for the surgical area to heal completely.

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