Question:
My surgeon offers to do the tummy tuck at the same time as the Open RnY

This saves money (only pay for the procedure - about $4,000, rather than the procedure plus hospital stay - about $16,000). He claims that it really doesn't affect the recovery time, pain, etc. and that there would be no need to have it redone after the wt. loss. Any feedback from others who have had this done?    — Donda B. (posted on February 17, 2001)

February 17, 2001
Don't understand how he can do a tuck prior to the weight loss, but I'm no expert.
   — defatbroad

February 17, 2001
I looked up your profile and saw you have Dr. Yates. He was with Dr. Mitchell and maybe still is. My point is, my friend was talked into having the tummy tuck done at the same time and what they failed to tell her is that they do the tuck and not a plastic surgeon. My friend's stomach looks freaky now and she is embarrassed by it. Her navel is not longer in the middle. Hope you have better luck.
   — [Anonymous]

February 17, 2001
I will be having open RNY and panniculectomy on March 2nd. i am having the panniculectomy done by a plastic surgeon. Ask your surgeon who will do the tummy tuck and what exactly will be done. ask for reference of patients eho had it done and talk to them.
   — Maureen N.

February 17, 2001
I'm certainly no expert, and I'm pre-op, but I thought the tummy tuck was to remove excess skin. How would you have excess skin prior to the weight loss? I'd think after you lose the weight you'd just have more excess skin? From what I've read, many people use the 2 for 1 logic when having hernia repair - pay for the tummy tuck but avoid the extra hospital costs. But I've never heard of a tummy tuck and an open RNY at the same time. Check his references closely.
   — Karen F.