Weight loss is a common problem faced by adults in today’s society. The widespread availability of cheap, unhealthy food in massive quantities has accelerated the numbers of people who qualify as obese every year. Fortunately, there are those afflicted with large amounts of excess weight who have taken charge of their lives, either through strict diet and exercise, or through other artificial methods, to lose much of the extra fat and achieve a much healthier physique. Often, a person’s skin cannot cope with the tremendous weight loss experienced by these determined individuals, which leads to loose hanging skin that starts to sag below the waist and at the back, replacing one set of problems for another. This unsightly condition can also be repaired, however, by a procedure called a panniculectomy.

A huge fold of loose skin after major weight loss is called a panniculus. People normally associate this with the abdominal section, where there is an apron of sagging fat and skin. A panniculus, however, may also be found in other parts of the body such as the neck, cheeks, arms, breasts and even the legs. Difficulty arises from panniculi due to rashes, skin infections and back problems. Sometimes, cases are so severe that the skin tears from the stress. Mobility also becomes a problem. Simple tasks, like walking and even changing clothes, become cumbersome and exhausting. This is when a person becomes a candidate for panniculectomy.

Not everybody can simply walk into a clinic and undergo the surgery, however. One must have a stable weight in order to be considered. Women should also plan against pregnancy for the time being. Relatively healthy people are the best candidates for this procedure. There are other concerns, just like with other major plastic surgeries. Smokers are advised to quit as nicotine always causes complications. People with trouble healing due to genetics, bad health or age will be warned against getting this type of surgery.

The procedure can either be done in a hospital, or, in an outpatient surgery center. General anesthesia is typically used due to the significant trauma to the body, but some patients opt for an epidural instead. Incisions will then be made to cut out the panniculus, and the remaining skin will be pulled in and stitched together. Surgical tape will then be placed to support the sutures. The doctor may also attach drain tubes through the incisions to siphon away excess fluid that tends to accumulate. The procedure can last anywhere from two to six hours. A minimum overnight stay is required, but hospital stay may last as long as a week.

The healing process for this surgery is a long one. Swelling and bruising should be expected in the first couple of days after a panniculectomy, after which, pain medication may be stopped. Regular activities, especially exercise, may not be possible for a couple of months, but it is possible to get back to work within two weeks. Full recovery is expected in two to three months.

A postoperative care list will be given to help prevent against side-effects. Sponge baths will take the place of regular showers. Drains will also need to be emptied, and, dressings will have to be changed. Still, complications may occur and if infection, bleeding, and excessive scarring happen, the doctor should immediately be informed.

One of the better things about a panniculectomy, from a financial perspective, is that insurance companies may cover the procedure as being therapeutic instead of purely elective, and may defray some or all of the expense involved. As the skin folds tend to impede normal activity as well as look loathsome, a panniculectomy should qualify as a necessary medical operation.