Request a Consultation with Dr. Repta
Give Plus Size Tummy Tuck a phone call at

What Is the Panniculectomy?

A panniculectomy is a surgical procedure that hones in on the specific task of removing any unwanted surplus of skin that tends to droop down below the folds of the lower abdomen. This occurs due to skin becoming overstretched after extreme cases of weight loss, which is why a body lift after weight loss may be the right option for you.

FUPA surgery in Scottsdale aims to relieve symptoms caused by overhanging skin. Dr. Repta makes it his task to restore a more comfortable and flattering abdomen. He has the skill and experience required to offer you one of the best the city has to offer.

woman in beige underwear with hands on hips

About the Procedure

A panniculectomy procedure is performed with the precise goal of removing all the excess skin and fat from the abdomen that droops below the waistline. A panniculectomy procedure is most commonly performed on those patients who have lost a great deal of weight and who now find themselves left with lax, nonessential abdominal skin that slouches far below the waist. This excess skin can hang down as far as one’s upper thighs or even toward one’s knees in some cases. Needless to say, this is less than desirable. 

Among some individuals, the abdominal skin and tissue can be the source of several physical complications. For example:

  • Skin irritation
  • Personal cleanliness issues, such as fungal infections
  • Hindering, as far as exercise or general mobility
  • Lower back pain
  • Difficulty finding clothes that fit and flatter your now slimmer body
  • Personal and social embarrassment or discomfort

Our Impressive Results

A body lift (panniculectomy) works to remove the excess abdominal skin and soft tissue so as to prevent or even correct such symptoms. In certain cases, a body lift procedure may be covered by your insurance, depending on your plan.

View Gallery

Tummy Tuck vs. Panniculectomy After Weight Loss

When considering skin removal after weight loss, it’s important to understand the difference between a tummy tuck and a panniculectomy.

Feature Tummy Tuck Panniculectomy
Purpose Remove excess skin, tighten abdominal muscles, reshape abdomen Remove excess skin primarily for medical/functional reasons
Ideal Candidates Patients seeking aesthetic contour improvements Patients with large overhangs causing irritation or hygiene issues
Scars Lower abdominal incision, often hidden Larger incision, possibly extending around hips
Recovery Typically 2–4 weeks 3–6 weeks
Insurance Coverage Usually cosmetic (not covered) Sometimes covered if medically necessary

Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision about which procedure best fits your goals. Dr. Repta will evaluate your individual needs during your consultation.

What Is the Difference Between a Body Lift and a Tummy Tuck?

It is vital that you understand the major differences between a panniculectomy and a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). For instance, a panniculectomy is not designed to:

  • Tighten abdominal skin
  • Restore or reconstruct one’s belly button
  • Tighten the muscles that surround the abdominal wall.
  • Use liposuction techniques to contour and carve out the waist.

These particular abdominal contouring enhancements are all part of a tummy tuck procedure. By having a body lift, you’ll be receiving an abdomen that is no longer hiding behind an overabundance of skin and tissue, and when paired with a tummy tuck, Dr. Repta can tighten muscles and trim out your waistline to further reveal a flatter, slimmer-looking stomach. Dr. Repta strives to deliver a body lift after weight loss in Scottsdale that patients can flaunt.

We encourage you to visit our tummy tuck page to learn more.

Banner media

During Your Consultation for FUPA Surgery

During your consultation for a body lift in Scottsdale, Dr. Repta will be available to answer any questions that you have regarding the procedure or any other surgeries you may be considering. It is important to bring up any concerns you may have before deciding on surgery so that they may be fully talked through. By doing so, you can focus on being relaxed on the day of your surgery.

Every patient has their own hopes for what they would like to accomplish in the way of physical enhancement. Dr. Repta makes a point of being meticulously thorough when discussing your individual aspirations for your body. Together, you and Dr. Repta can come up with an exclusively tailored surgical plan, and you can finally be on your way to feeling confident in your own skin.

A Word from the Doctor

Happily Ever After: How Skin Removal Surgery After Weight Loss Can Complete Your Weight Loss Journey

Many of us struggle with some form of weight gain in our life. For patients who have achieved massive weight loss via bariatric surgery or through diet and exercise, some degree of loose skin may remain. A significant amount of loose skin after weight loss can make the weight loss journey feel incomplete. This is why skin removal procedures such as the ones listed below are important in most patients' weight loss journey.

cactus in the corner of an office

Recovery After a Tummy Tuck Following Weight Loss

Recovery after a tummy tuck following significant weight loss can vary based on the extent of your procedure and your overall health. Here’s what you can generally expect:

  • First Week: Expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Walking and light movement are encouraged to promote circulation, but strenuous activity should be avoided.
  • Weeks 2–4: Many patients return to work during this time, though lifting heavy objects should still be avoided.
  • Weeks 4–6: Most swelling has subsided, and patients may gradually resume exercise.
  • Full Recovery: Final results typically appear within 6–12 months, as your body fully heals.

Dr. Repta will provide detailed, personalized recovery instructions to ensure optimal results and comfort.

Body Contouring Procedures After Weight Loss

These procedures are similar to the procedures performed for patients who have not experienced massive weight loss, but they are also unique. The term “after weight loss” that follows each procedure name indicates the need to take into account the weight loss process as well as the remaining journey of weight loss and skin removal.

  • Tummy tuck after weight loss
  • Arm lift after weight loss
  • Body lift after weight loss
  • Thigh lift after weight loss
  • Facelift after weight loss
  • Neck lift after weight loss
Banner media
Doctor media

Dr. Remus Repta’s Surgical Expertise

When to perform skin removal surgery depends on whether further weight loss is planned, how much additional weight loss is anticipated, and each patient's preference. In my practice, the ideal time to perform skin removal after weight loss takes into account these factors. It is important to emphasize that just because a patient has not reached their goal weight, it does not mean that they are not a good candidate for skin removal surgery or that they cannot get a great result from skin removal procedures such as the ones listed above.

Often, when skin removal surgery after weight loss is performed, the patient experiences further weight loss. This happens for a number of reasons, including eliminating excess skin that allows more mobility and, therefore, more exercise, as well as re-energizing the patient to push harder and get to their next target weight goal. Regardless of the reason, we have commonly seen patients who have plateaued from their weight loss resume their weight loss process after skin removal surgery.

Panniculectomy FAQ

Who Is a Candidate for Skin Removal Surgery in Scottsdale?

How does a panniculectomy differ from a tummy tuck?

What can I expect during the recovery period after a panniculectomy?

Will there be visible scarring after a panniculectomy?

How long do the results of a panniculectomy last?

Can a panniculectomy be combined with other procedures?

Is skin removal surgery (panniculectomy) covered by insurance in Scottsdale?

Who Is a Candidate for Skin Removal Surgery in Scottsdale?

Individuals with a significant overhanging pannus, often due to massive weight loss, pregnancy, or other factors, may be suitable candidates for a panniculectomy.

How does a panniculectomy differ from a tummy tuck?

While both procedures involve removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, a panniculectomy is primarily a medical necessity to address functional issues, while a tummy tuck is typically cosmetic and focuses on body contouring.

What can I expect during the recovery period after a panniculectomy?

Recovery varies, but most patients can expect some swelling, discomfort, and limited mobility during the initial weeks. Following post-operative instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery.

Will there be visible scarring after a panniculectomy?

Scarring is normal after surgery, but skilled surgeons place incisions strategically to minimize visible scarring. Scars typically fade and become less noticeable over time.

How long do the results of a panniculectomy last?

The results of a panniculectomy are typically long-lasting as long as the patient maintains a stable weight. However, natural aging and lifestyle factors can impact the longevity of results.

Can a panniculectomy be combined with other procedures?

In some cases, a panniculectomy can be combined with other body contouring procedures, such as liposuction or a tummy tuck, to achieve more comprehensive results. Consult your surgeon to discuss your specific goals.

Is skin removal surgery (panniculectomy) covered by insurance in Scottsdale?

A panniculectomy is often considered medically necessary when it addresses functional issues or causes health problems. In such cases, it may be covered by insurance. Verification with your insurance provider is recommended.

Reviews media

Why Choose Dr. Remus Repta?

If you would like to learn more about your options for a panniculectomy in Scottsdale, request a consultation online. Or, if you prefer, you are more than welcome to call the office directly, and one of our staff members can assist you. For nearly twenty years now, our practice has been earning a reputation for excellence, and we’re excited to learn more about how our cutting-edge tummy tuck techniques can help you realize your creative goals and leave you feeling more confident than ever. When you’re ready to get started, reach out to our Scottsdale office and set up your initial consultation today.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Ideal Body

If you’re ready to explore tummy tuck options after weight loss in Scottsdale or Phoenix, schedule your private consultation with Dr. Remus Repta. Together, we’ll develop a treatment plan that completes your weight loss journey and helps you look and feel your best.

Banner media

Start your surgery journey today You Can Achieve Your Dream Body

Schedule a consultation
Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 855-377-3782.
View Before & Afters Contact Us