Gastric Bypass Surgery Support Group
Gastric bypass (GBP) is any of a group of similar operative procedures used to treat morbid obesity, a condition which arises from severe accumulation of excess weight in the form of fatty tissue, and the health problems ("co-morbidities") which result. If you are considering gastric bypass or have had it, join the community where we share our experiences and find support.
I might be putting the cart before the horse since I havent had by GBS yet, but I am wondering if anyone knows of some exercise or something you can do while you're losing weight that will help to get rid of or decrease the pannis? My stomach hangs almost to my knees and the doc said it will probably hang down even further after I lose the weight. I don't know if my insurance will cover that and I really am a bit afraid of the pain. I think I can handle the RNY (I need it to save my life anyway), but I'm kind of afraid of the plastic surgery. I'd love to hear your ideas, opinions, etc. Thank you
It's never too early to be thinking about what to do after surgery. If you are already having issues with your stomach hanging that far, unfortunately there aren't any exercises to get rid of it.
I know you're afraid of the pain that comes with having plastic surgery, but you run the risk of having more pain if the extra skin develops rashes, sores and/or infections.
At least the pain associated with plastic surgery is from the body's healing process which will diminish in a few weeks.
As far as coverage, you have a condition now that will only become more prevalent after surgery. Chances are you will be a candidate to have the surgery covered because of possible risks of not removing the excess skin. Talk with you doctor ahead of time and keep asking questions.
I wish you luck. You're on the right track and your health will benefit so much for having the surgery.
Take care,
Toni
My pannis was 15", from the underside seam to my bellybutton preop, it has only shrunk down to 13" even though I've lost nearly 130 lbs. So basically deflating it instead of shrinking any skin. I haven't been successfull in any attempts to get it to shrink, no creams or exercizes have worked for me on this area. My other areas though, back, arms, thighs, all look great, it's just my pannis that really bothers me. Physically its uncomfortable more now.
My insurance will be covering my skin removal. I suggest calling yours and asking if there is any coverage for plastic surgery after massive weight loss. Some limit it to just a pannilectomy, but my has no restrictions on just the abdominal area. My insurance company said, if the surgeon makes a medically necessary recommendation for plastic surgery then its covered.
The plastic surgeon told me that most insurance companies he has personally dealt with, if they cover gastric bypass they'll cover pannilectomy. And the procedure he does is like a lower body lift, but he bills it to insurance as the pannilectomy so that he can do more for his patients that way.
If you'd like to know more about what I learned feel free to message me. But don't feel hopeless, I think once things start rolling along for you, you'll find your way and see your options may not be so out of reach!
Best of luck to you!!!