Panniculectomy

The most common reconstructive surgery to the midsection or torso is a panniculectomy. This is a surgery to remove excess skin (called a panniculus) that hangs down over the patient’s groin, typically after significant weight loss. A panniculectomy is not a tummy tuck; there is no muscle tightening or contouring done. It’s very specifically the removal of excess skin that has caused medical problems such as skin break downs, rashes, and infections.  Some insurance companies will cover the cost of a this procedure, based on the degree of medical issues associated with the panniculus, the grade of the panniculus, and plan coverage limits.

This procedure is not meant to improve your overall body shape. It is strictly intended to help remove the overhanging skin on the lower abdomen that is causing health issues.
From a surgical standpoint, a panniculectomy involves removal of the excess skin and subcutaneous fat and closure of the wound. It occasionally may necessitate removal (not repositioning) of the umbilicus (belly button), because of severe displacement.