What To Expect During A Panniculectomy
Before undergoing a panniculectomy, you must consult with Dr. Sessa. During this consultation, Dr. Sessaa will review your medical history to make sure you can safely undergo the procedure. Once he clears you for the surgery, he’ll review your body composition and overall goals to create the perfect plan for your panniculectomy.
Panniculectomy Surgery
During a panniculectomy surgery, you’ll be placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort during the entire procedure. A panniculectomy uses the same incision sites as a tummy tuck around the lower bikini line. Dr. Sessa will remove all excess skin around the pannus from this incision. The surgery can take two hours or more, depending on how much skin needs removal.
Panniculectomy Recovery
While recovery from a panniculectomy is relatively quick as far as surgical procedures go, you will still need to take off work and rest for at least a week. Dr. Sessa may suggest a longer rest time depending on how much skin is removed. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common during the initial stages of healing. However, Dr. Sessa will provide medication to help you stay comfortable and other recovery instructions such as:
- Take at least a week to rest and recover
- Leave all surgical bandages on until Dr. Sessa removes them
- Do not exercise or participate in physical activity until cleared to do so
- Take all pain medication prescribed
- Attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Sessa