Cost of panniculectomy?

I went for a consult today and the surgeon seemed reasonably sure that the panniculectomy would be covered by insurance.  However, she did say that she would have to do some lipo on some areas more up toward my breast line.  She said that the lipo, being a second procedure, would be 50% off and gave me a quote for anesthesia and her fee plus the lipo to be about 5k.  That seems high to me, even after insurance.  Wouldn't the insurance company pay her fee?  I'm really confused.....

That might be her extra fee for the Lipo.  I would suggest asking what she'd charge for a full Tummy Tuck.  A Panniculectomy doesn't always offer good results - on it's own.  Many will allow the insurance to pay what they will for a panni and then they pay the extra to get a full TT.  Just a thought.  My insurance didn't cover anything, so I was self pay for all of it!

What is the difference b/w a panniculectomy and a full tummy tuck? I am new to this surgery forum.

A panni just removes the skin that hangs down.  Often doesn't pull the mons up to it's proper place and does nothing with the upper tummy.  Pulls nothing down and no muscle tightening.  Many times you're left with a very disfigured appearance.  It's worth paying the extra and getting the full TT.