Thanks for the suggestion. I actually have contacted the office of Dr. Joseph Michaels in Rockville, MD and he isn't in network with my insurance and I do not have out-of-network benefits so he simply isn't an option for me. I was a little sad when I found out because I'd been following him on Instagram for months and I love his work.

It's alright, I'll keep looking!

Hi everyone!

I was under the impression that it would be easy for me to find a plastic surgeon who would allow me to simply pay the difference between what insurance reimburses for a panniculectomy and what the surgeon/facility charges for a full tummy tuck, but it has been a challenge so far. Either the surgeon doesn't accept insurance at all or they want me to pay for the TT in full and THEN file a claim with my insurance company so they can reimburse me for the cost of a panniculectomy. Unfortunately, I don't have that kind of money just laying around.

I live in Prince George's County, Maryland. Does anyone know of any surgeon/facility within the DMV (DC, MD, VA) area that actually accepts insurance for panniculectomies and will allow the patient to just pay the price difference without making them pay the full cost of the TT at any point in the process?

It seems like you have time to figure out the money, then. You could get a job, or a second job. Babysitting might be an option. Home day care, depending on your home situation. You could wait until your kids are in school. Find ways to cut costs in life if you can.

Personally I would not dare to do a Go fund me for plastics. I understand about loose skin. I always kid that I am wearing my sports car with all the skin removal I've done. You could discuss with family. Get a second job etc.. I live in Canada and we dont get anything covered except for a panni and breast reduction but it all depends on where you live. In my weight loss journey I knew there would be skin issues. I would choose what really bothers you the most a save towards it. Most PS would not even consider skin removal until you are close to your goal weight and stable. From other post it did not seem you are down to goal yet. Even if you can put $5-10 bucks a week in your plastic jar it will add up quickly. Good luck in your journey.

Yes! I had abdominal surgery October 2018 for colon cancer and my incision has taken all this time to close. Still have a tiny bit of drainage. It is from moving around, bending, lifting, etc. Things that really can't be avoided. As long as it doesn't smell and isn't green it is OK, according to my surgeon.