5 Things You Should Know About Panniculus (and How to Treat It)
If you’ve noticed a heavy fold of skin hanging from your lower abdomen, especially after major weight loss or pregnancy, you may be dealing with a condition called a panniculus. While common, it’s often misunderstood — and many patients don’t realize how much it can affect their health, comfort, and mobility.
Here are five key facts that can help you understand this condition and what treatment options are available.
1. A Panniculus Is More Than Just Loose Skin
A panniculus is an overhanging flap of skin and fat in the lower abdomen. It often forms after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, and it can range in severity — from a minor pouch to a large overhang that extends over the thighs or pubic area.
Clinically, it's not just cosmetic. In many cases, it becomes medically necessary to treat, especially if it causes health issues.
2. It Can Lead to Skin Problems and Daily Discomfort
When the skin hangs and folds over itself, it creates a moist environment that’s prone to:
Skin rashes
Yeast or fungal infections
Painful irritation
Difficulty with hygiene
These issues are not just frustrating — they can seriously impact your quality of life and physical activity.
3. Surgery Is Often the Most Effective Treatment
For mild cases, hygiene care and compression garments can help. But when the panniculus is large or causing physical symptoms, the most effective solution is a procedure called a panniculectomy.
This surgery removes the hanging tissue to restore comfort and improve body contour. Unlike a tummy tuck, it doesn’t tighten the abdominal muscles — it focuses on removing the excess skin and fat only.
Learn more about what to expect from a panniculectomy at Adonis Plastic Surgery.
4. It’s Not Just About Looks — Insurance May Cover It
Because a panniculus can lead to recurring skin infections, ulcers, and hygiene issues, insurance may cover part or all of the procedure — but only if it’s deemed medically necessary.
You’ll usually need:
Documentation of infections or discomfort
Proof that non-surgical treatments haven’t helped
Photos or medical records
This is one reason we offer detailed documentation support during your panniculectomy consultation.
5. It’s Common — and There’s No Shame in Treating It
Many patients feel embarrassed by this condition or don’t realize there’s a name for it. But it’s far more common than you think — and completely treatable.
If you’re struggling with the physical or emotional impact of a panniculus, know that there are real, effective options to help you feel better in your body.
Visit our liposuction and Tummy tuck pages to see how we can help you move forward confidently, or simply book a free consultation here.
