Panniculectomy Long Island & Huntington Station, NY
Serving patients in Huntington Station & Suffolk County, NY
Serving patients in Huntington Station & Suffolk County, NY
After major weight loss, pregnancy, or significant lifestyle changes, some individuals are left with an overhanging “apron” of skin and tissue known as a pannus. This excess skin can cause physical discomfort, rashes, and hygiene challenges that no amount of diet or exercise can correct.
Dr. Charlotte Ann Rhee is a board-certified plastic surgeon who performs panniculectomy. This surgical procedure removes the excess skin from the lower abdomen to restore comfort, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life. Learn more if a Panniculectomy is right for you at Charlotte Ann Rhee, MD, PC, in Huntington Station, NY, serving Suffolk County, Long Island, and beyond.
Removes excess lower abdominal skin (pannus) following weight loss or pregnancy
2–4 hours
General anesthesia
4–6 weeks
Flatter, smoother abdominal contour; improved comfort and hygiene
Reduces irritation, increases mobility, enhances self-confidence
A panniculectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove the hanging fold of skin and tissue (pannus) that can develop after significant weight loss or abdominal stretching. Unlike a tummy tuck, which also tightens muscles and contours the waistline, a panniculectomy focuses primarily on functional improvement by removing excess skin in the abdomen, thighs, or surrounding areas.
Dr. Rhee customizes each panniculectomy to meet the unique needs of her patients, offering a flatter, healthier abdominal profile without compromising safety or natural results.
Panniculectomy surgery is performed under general anesthesia at Dr. Rhee’s accredited surgical facility.
A horizontal incision is made just above the pubic area, extending toward the hips. Through this incision, Dr. Rhee carefully removes excess skin and tissue while preserving the natural contours of the body. In some cases, liposuction may be combined to smooth the transition between the upper and lower abdomen.
Excess skin and fat hanging from the lower abdomen, called the pannus, is removed. The remaining skin is gently repositioned and sutured for a smooth, balanced contour. Drains may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid buildup, and a compression garment is applied to support healing.
A panniculectomy is performed to improve physical comfort and hygiene concerns associated with excess abdominal skin. It may address:
For many patients, panniculectomy is both a medical and emotional transformation, relieving physical symptoms while restoring confidence and self-image.
Beyond improving appearance, the panniculectomy delivers meaningful, life-enhancing benefits:
While not primarily a cosmetic surgery, patients often experience a boost in confidence and comfort that enhances every aspect of daily life.
You may be a good candidate for panniculectomy if you:
Candidates seeking muscle tightening or waistline contouring may choose to combine panniculectomy with abdominoplasty for a more comprehensive result. Dr. Rhee will guide you toward the best option during your consultation.
After surgery, patients wear a compression garment to support healing and minimize swelling. Light walking is encouraged early to promote circulation, while strenuous activity should be avoided for 4–6 weeks.
Dr. Rhee and her staff provide personalized aftercare instructions, schedule follow-up appointments, and remain readily available to answer questions throughout the recovery process. Most patients return to non-strenuous work within two weeks and notice a significant improvement in comfort soon after surgery.
Results are visible immediately after surgery, with the abdomen appearing flatter and lighter once swelling subsides. Over the following weeks and months, incision lines fade, and skin tone evens out.
Patients often report not only improved physical comfort but also increased confidence, enhanced mobility, and greater freedom in their movement and clothing choices. Maintaining a stable weight will help preserve your results long-term.
When you come to see Dr. Charlotte Ann Rhee, you’re treated by a board-certified female plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of experience in body contouring and reconstructive surgery. Her approach combines surgical precision with compassionate, personalized care, ensuring that every patient feels understood, supported, and confident.
Dr. Rhee’s expertise in post-weight-loss body contouring and breast and abdominal surgery makes her one of Long Island’s trusted specialists for panniculectomy procedures. Her boutique-style private practice ensures you receive concierge-level attention from consultation to recovery.
No. While both procedures remove excess skin, a tummy tuck also tightens underlying abdominal muscles and refines the waistline. A panniculectomy focuses solely on the removal of skin and tissue for functional improvement.
In some instances, such as when the pannus causes recurrent infections or hygiene issues, insurance may cover part or all of the procedure. Dr. Rhee’s staff can assist with documentation and preauthorization if applicable.
The results of panniculectomy are generally permanent as long as you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. However, aging and significant weight changes may alter the appearance of the abdomen over time.
Yes, scarring is inevitable, but it is typically positioned low on the abdomen and easily concealed under clothing. With proper care, scars fade significantly within 6–12 months.
Yes. Many patients combine panniculectomy with abdominoplasty, liposuction, or breast lift surgery to achieve enhanced overall results and a more proportionate body.
