Bariatric Procedures by Melissa Johnson MD, FACS
Bariatric Plastic Surgery Procedures After Weight Loss
After massive weight loss there may be excess skin and fat in multiple areas of the body. Body contouring procedures such as panniculectomy and thigh lift will remove the sagging skin and fat and will provide a more toned shape to your body. There are a number of different procedures that can be done to target your specific problem areas. If you are still actively losing weight, we recommend you postpone any body contouring procedures until your weight has been stable for at least 6 months. See before & after photos of panniculectomy and thigh lift below.
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Bariatric FAQs
What is panniculectomy?
Panniculectomy is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fatty tissue from the lower abdomen, leaving planned abdominal scars. It is not a treatment for being overweight. Obese individuals who intend to lose weight should postpone all forms of body contouring surgery until they have reached a stable weight. Panniculectomy can be combined with other body contouring surgery, including suction-assisted lipectomy in other areas, or other elective surgeries. Panniculectomy does not correct the abdominal muscles or other contour irregularities. It is usually performed when a pannus, or overhang of abdominal tissue, is present.
What do I need to schedule a panniculectomy consultation?
If you are interested in a Panniculectomy consultation, you MUST obtain a letter of medical necessity from your referring provider (Primary Care Doctor, OB/GYN Doctor, Bariatric Surgeon, etc) before we can schedule a consultation. The letter must include the following information to support your decision to have surgery:
- Pannus causes chronic rashes or non-healing ulcers (cellulitis, skin irritation, infection or chafing)
- Documentation of at least 3 months of conservative treatment has been tried, such as corticosteroid ointments or antifungals, powders, topical, oral or systemic antibiotics
- Pannus hangs below the level of pubis
- After significant weight loss, weight has been stable for at least 6 months
- Documented functional physical impairment with activities of daily living, such as difficulty walking
- Bariatric Surgery Patients: Individual must be at least 18 months post-operative and have documented stable weight for at least 3-6 months.
Your referring provider can fax the letter to Pioneer Valley Plastic Surgery at (413) 731-7870. Once we receive the letter, we can schedule a consultation for you.
If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a consultation as Self-Pay, you can call our office at (413) 731-7877. You will need to pay the $200 consultation fee over the phone when you schedule the appointment.
Panniculectomy before & after photos
All photos are of procedures performed by Dr. Melissa Johnson
What is a thigh lift?
A thigh lift is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fatty tissue from the medial thighs. A medial thigh lift is not a surgical treatment for being overweight. Obese individuals who intend to lose weight should postpone all forms of body contouring surgery until they have reached a stable weight. There are a variety of different techniques used by Dr. Johnson for a medial thigh lift. Your preferences, anatomy, and Dr. Johnson's recommendation will determine the technique and approach.
Thigh lift before & after photos
All photos are of procedures performed by Dr. Melissa Johnson