Question:
What is the difference between a panniculectomy and a tummy tuck?

I've seen a number of posts recently concerning panniculectomies and have heard/read it to be done in lieu of a tummy tuck then doing a tummy tuck at a later date. I even answered the question thinking they were one in the same procedure. The reaason I am asking is that I have a very large heavy sagging tummy. I've lost 200 lbs so far but still have 150 or so to lose. I've been told that tummy tucks were out of the question until the bulk or all of the excess weight was gone, as I was too heavy to heal properly. I am hoping for a revision to help me get the rest of this weight off ... but I'd also like to get this sag taken off if possible. Thanks!    — Sherrie G. (posted on June 17, 1999)

June 18, 1999
From my amatuer understanding, the bag on our tummy is the pannus, or "purse". Ectomy means removal. So, a panniculectomy is a "purse removal". For me, having that thing lopped off was FABULOUS! My op report refers to it as an "amputation". The abdominoplasty is deeper inside. Obviously to do with the abdomen, in this case the muscles. And plasty, to change or repair. So, they actually reshaped my muscles to create a waist where my figure type had none. Pretty cool, huh?
   — vitalady

June 18, 1999
Paniculectomy is usually removal of the pannis or apron area. When a tummy tuck is done there is sometimes also tightening up the abdominal muscles if necessary. The surgeries can be very similar. I just had what could be called a panniculectomy at the beginning of this month. They removed about 10 lbs of fat and tissue. I needed this done due to back problems and skin problems. When they opened me up they also found that I had a hernia that needed to be repaired. I still have about 45-50 more lbs I would like to lose and then I will go in for a tummy tuck.
   — kathy942

June 20, 1999
A panniculectomy is strictly removal of the fat apron, with a tummy tuck they also tightent he abdominal muscles. You will get a better result with the tummy tuck.
   — Donna D.