What is the difference between a panniculectomy and an abdominoplasty?
A panniculectomy is a procedure that only removes loose, hanging skin in the lower abdomen below the belly button. It does not involve tightening the muscles or tightening the upper abdomen at all. It is often done for patients who have frequent rashes and skin irritation underneath the hanging skin. It may be covered by insurance if there is a long history of rashes caused by the loose skin. An abdominoplasty however, is always considered a cosmetic procedure and is never covered by insurance.
