What is the difference between abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and panniculectomy?
An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a cosmetic surgery that can improve the look and contour of the abdominal area. This surgery removes minimal to moderate amounts of extra skin and tissue from the abdominal area and frequently involves tightening of the abdominal muscles to improve the appearance of the abdomen and often the waist as well. Patients seeking abdominoplasty generally are interested in returning to a figure similar to that prior to pregnancy and weight loss. Abdominoplasty is not just for women. Many men seek abdominoplasty after weight loss to improve their abdominal appearance. Abdominplasty surgery patients are able to return home the same day after a brief recovery period. Abdominoplasty is not covered by insurance. Panniculectomy surgery, similar to abdominoplasty, removes the extra skin and tissue from the lower abdominal area improving the shape and contour. This surgery removes moderate to large areas of extra skin and fat tissue and is generally performed on patie