Significant weight changes can bring major improvements in health and quality of life, but they can also leave behind excess skin that is difficult to manage. A panniculectomy is a procedure designed to remove a pannus — an overhanging "apron" of skin and tissue from the lower abdomen.
For patients who have achieved major weight loss but still struggle with discomfort, hygiene issues, or mobility limitations, a panniculectomy may offer meaningful relief.Â
Performed by Dr. Arnold Breitbart, a double board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of experience, this procedure focuses on improving comfort and restoring function when excess skin affects daily life.
What Is a Panniculectomy?
A panniculectomy removes the pannus, which is the loose, hanging skin and tissue that can remain in the lower abdomen after major weight changes. This extra skin can vary in size, from a small fold that disrupts clothing fit to a large apron of tissue that extends below the pubic area or even the thighs or knees.
With a tummy tuck after weight loss, Dr. Breitbart tightens abdominal muscles and reshapes the midsection. Often, a tummy tuck is primarily cosmetic in nature, although it can have medical benefits as well.
With a panniculectomy, the main goals are to address medical and functional concerns. While the procedure isn't designed primarily for contouring, patients often appreciate the cleaner abdominal profile that results from removing excess skin.
Symptoms and Concerns a Panniculectomy Can Improve
Many men and women seek a panniculectomy because the pannus causes physical discomfort or affects daily routines. Common concerns include:
• Skin irritation, rashes, sores, or infections beneath the fold
• Difficulty maintaining hygiene
• Back discomfort caused by the weight of the hanging tissue
• Limited movement or difficulty exercising
• Trouble finding clothing that fits comfortably
• Emotional distress related to body appearance or skin changes
Patients who have lost significant weight often feel proud of their progress but frustrated by the lingering skin that prevents them from fully enjoying their success. A panniculectomy can help bridge that gap by removing the apron of tissue that no longer serves a functional purpose.
Treatment Options and What to Expect
During your consultation, Dr. Breitbart assesses the amount of excess skin, reviews your medical history, and discusses your goals to determine whether a panniculectomy is appropriate. Some patients choose to combine the panniculectomy with additional cosmetic body contouring procedures, depending on their needs. Others focus solely on functional improvement.
The surgery is performed as an outpatient surgical procedure in an accredited surgical suite which meets higher standards for patient safety and care. Many patients appreciate the privacy and convenience of having their procedure in this fully equipped facility.
Recovery varies with the extent of skin removal. Patients typically experience swelling and discomfort that gradually improve over several weeks. Dr. Breitbart provides detailed postoperative instructions and follow-up care to support healing.
Does Insurance Cover Panniculectomy?
Occasionally insurance companies may cover a panniculectomy for medical reasons. During your consultation with Dr. Breitbart, he can determine whether in your case insurance might cover the panniculectomy procedure.
Why Choose Dr. Arnold Breitbart for Panniculectomy
Dr. Breitbart is renowned board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience and thousands of procedures performed throughout his career. His training and surgical judgment allow him to create results that enhance comfort and complement each patient’s natural proportions. He's known for his precise technique, advanced surgical setting, and patient-focused approach.
Over more than 30 years in practice, Dr. Breitbart has been featured in national and regional media outlets for his expertise. Publications such as Glamour, Allure, Self, and Newsday have highlighted his work, along with appearances on NBC News. He has also earned repeated recognition from Castle Connolly for excellence in the New York metropolitan area, reflecting the trust he has built among both patients and peers.
Schedule a Panniculectomy Consultation - Long Island or Manhattan
If excess abdominal skin is affecting your comfort or daily activities, a panniculectomy may provide meaningful improvement. Call our Long Island office at 516-365-3511 or our Manhattan office at 212-735-0069 to book your consultation with Dr. Arnold Breitbart.
