Flatten excess abdominal tissue and restore comfort with panniculectomy, a procedure that removes the hanging “pannus” for a smoother, healthier contour. At Advanced Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Center, Dr. Daron Geldwert and Dr. Darren S. Leong deliver individualized, natural results that conform to your unique goals and anatomy.
Achieve Relief From Excess Abdominal Skin
Panniculectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the excess apron of skin and fat, known as a pannus, that often develops in the lower abdomen after weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. Unlike a tummy tuck, which also tightens underlying muscles, panniculectomy focuses solely on eliminating the overhanging tissue to improve comfort and mobility. By reducing the bulk of the lower abdomen, this procedure can help relieve skin irritation, make daily activities easier, and create a smoother, more natural body contour.
What Are the Benefits of Lower Abdomen Reduction?
- Improve comfort by removing heavy, overhanging abdominal tissue
- Reduce skin irritation, rashes, and infections beneath the pannus
- Enhance mobility and make physical activity easier
- Improve personal hygiene and daily self-care routines
- Create a smoother, more balanced lower body contour
- Support long-term results after weight loss or bariatric surgery
Am I a Suitable Candidate for Panniculectomy (Lower Abdomen Reduction)?
You may be a suitable candidate for panniculectomy if you struggle with excess skin and fat that hangs from your lower abdomen, often after weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. This procedure is not a cosmetic “tummy tuck,” but rather a medical surgery that addresses physical discomfort, skin irritation, and mobility limitations caused by the pannus. Our surgeons carefully evaluate your health, lifestyle, and goals to determine if this surgery is right for you.
You may be a candidate for lower abdomen reduction if:
- You experience chronic skin rashes, irritation, or infections beneath the abdominal fold
- You have difficulty with mobility or hygiene due to excess abdominal tissue
- You have maintained a stable body weight for at least 6 months
- You do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after surgery
- You are in generally good health without uncontrolled medical conditions
- You have realistic expectations about the functional and aesthetic improvements
- You feel self-conscious about the appearance of your lower abdomen
What Happens During the Panniculectomy Procedure?
During panniculectomy, you will be placed under general anesthesia. Our surgeons make a horizontal incision across your lower abdomen, just above the pubic area, and carefully remove the excess skin and fatty tissue that form the pannus. The remaining skin is repositioned and sutured for a smoother contour. In some cases, drains may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid buildup. The procedure helps improve the overall shape of your lower abdomen.
What is the Recovery Process Like After Panniculectomy?
After panniculectomy, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the lower abdomen, which gradually improve over the first two weeks. Most patients take about 2 to 3 weeks off work, depending on the physical demands of their job. You should avoid strenuous exercise for 6 to 8 weeks, though light walking is encouraged to support healing. The final results become more noticeable after swelling subsides, typically within 2 to 3 months.
Why Choose Advanced Plastic and Reconstructive
Surgery Center?
Advanced Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Center is the premier destination for transformative body contouring procedures, including panniculectomy. With over 35 years of combined experience and more than 10,000 procedures performed, Dr. Daron Geldwert and Dr. Darren S. Leong bring unmatched expertise and compassionate care to every patient. Both are board-certified and fellowship-trained and specialize in advanced reconstructive and aesthetic surgery techniques that create natural, lasting results.
Our surgeons frequently collaborate as co-surgeons on complex procedures, ensuring you benefit from two highly skilled perspectives during surgery. Their individualized approach means no two treatment plans are alike: your comfort, function, and confidence are always prioritized. If you are considering panniculectomy (lower abdomen reduction), we invite you to schedule a consultation at our Rancho Cucamonga or Murrieta offices to restore balance to your body.
