Question:
Large panni and running w/out TT or Belt Lipectomy. Runners only please!!!

I have lost 120# (30 to my personal goal). I have been biking a lot, and like to swim too. I have always wanted to run... now that I am down to 155 this seems like an attainable goal in the near future. This dream came to a screaching halt when I ran across the street yesterday to make a traffic light- all I could hear was my stomach (about 90% skin) slapping. I wanted to die. Thankfully no one else was around to hear. Obviously this is going to make running a big problem. I already get frequent rashes, so wearing spandex to "hold it down" while running would be difficult. I have so much energy though! I know that as I get closer to goal I am going to want to consider the possiblity of training for a triathalon (possibly next summer). Is a tummy tuck (more likely a belt lipectomy) my only resort? Are there any other former lifetime MO people who are NOW athletes who have gone through this change successfully? I should mention that I have a scar that is similar to what I have seen on pictures of belt lipectomy patients - is is about 20" long and runs along the bottom of my ribcage (if you need more details please read my profile or email me). That's why I think the belt procedure makes the most sense for me, rather than the traditional TT. Thanks for your help!    — kultgirl (posted on July 17, 2003)

July 17, 2003
I too am very athletic and had the "skin smacking" problem. I still continued to run and cycle with the skin smacking and I hated it! HOwever, with this problem, it helped getting my abdominoplasty approved by my insurance company. You must had documented by your PCP for treatment for the rashes and have the rash present when visiting the Plastic Surgeon so that he/she may take photos. Anyways..... I just had my abdominoplasty done on July 8 the you wouldn't believe how wonderful I look. Girlfriend, I have NO hanging skin to smacking around anymore. Abdominoplasty is a procedure where your abdominal muscles are reconstructed (...if needed) and they take the skin below your breast bone and pull it all the way down to your pubic line, and all the rest is cut off. Then a new belly button is made. I believe this procedure would help you 100% with your running. I can't wait to run again because I know I will be better then ever. If you need a copy of my letter to the insurance company, please email me and I will send it to you. [email protected] or [email protected]. Good Luck
   — Jeanette D.

July 17, 2003
If you're asking is there another way to get rid of the panni other than a TT (of whatever type), the answer, sadly, is no. With such a low weight you can probably start looking into it now and be out running in a few months. Good luck with your triathlon, that's exciting!
   — Chris T.

July 17, 2003
Shelli, I was a serious athlete in high school and since having this surgeyr last summer, I am down 118lbs from 305 to 187. I lift, I bike, I run. I started jogging a few mos ago and I don't have an "slapping skin" but it is defintly an inconvenience. I am assuming for you, the skin is not only uncomfortable, but, it slows you down. A gal in my Philly support group does trialathalon's, she however has had 2-3 plastic surgey's so, she has had no problems. I guess I really don't have an answer for you other than I think you will easily be apprv'd for PS b/c of the rashes, etc. Good Luck!
   — heathercross