Abdominoplasty

[BamaBrit]

Hey everyone! I posted several months ago about getting a paniculectomy vs an abdominoplasty. Since that post I've been to a plastic surgeon for a consult. He said I wouldn't be happy with a panniculectomy, then he started his exam. OMG. So glad I went when I did. He said because I was morbidly obese for so long my abdominal muscles have separated and my belly button isn't in the correct position anymore. I actually need reconstructive surgery to correct this. He stated several other things that were medically wrong due to this separation. He submitted several photos and a narrative to insurance to try to get this approved. Of course, per the norm, they're taking their sweet time for the approval process. This isn't cosmetic surgery, this is needed reconstructive surgery at this point. After discussing it with my husband we've came to the conclusion that this is needed and even if I'm denied I'll still need it. If it needs to be done we will get it done. Just wondering if anyone out there has had it and how good were your results? Did you pay out of pocket or did insurance pay for it? Also I've been told that it isn't a pleasant surgery to get over. How long did you have to stay off of work? How bad was the pain? Would you do it again (everyone I've talked to said they'd do it again)? Since I'm technically "open" due to the muscular separation, I'll NEED it. Thanks again everyone!

[RehabNurse]

My best friend had an abdominoplasty with muscle repair approximately two and a half weeks ago (4/20/18).

She's pleased with the results. Although she's still healing, her stomach is now flat. The pain wasn't all that terrible to her, but she's had two Cesarean sections, so she's accustomed to abdominal surgical pain.

She paid $6,000 out of pocket. Her surgeon said no insurance company would pay because her panniculus (a.k.a. stomach kangaroo pouch) was not large enough, nor was it pendulous enough.

[BamaBrit]

That’s exactly what my dr said. My skin is loose enough and I do have enough of it to have insurance pay for it but I doubt they will. My surgeon also quoted me $6000.00 for my abdominoplasty. That makes me feel good that she’s doing so well. Do you think that two weeks off of work would be long enough? I’ll have to have muscle repair too in order to close my adbomin up.

[RehabNurse]

Do you think that two weeks off of work would be long enough? I’ll have to have muscle repair too in order to close my adbomin up.

Two weeks off should be plenty of time as long as your type of work isn't too physical or strenuous.

My friend works a very sedentary desk job. She could return to work right now if she wanted because she feels fine, but she'd rather milk as much time off as the surgeon will allow.

[BamaBrit]

Ah I’m a dental hygienist and a surgical assistant and I’m on my feet a lot. I went back after my sleeve surgery but I couldn’t lift anything. I’m just worried about lifting too much after surgery.

[Christie13]

Fingers crossed that you get approved by your insurance. But sounds like you will be doing it regardless so I wish you good luck.

[BamaBrit]

Thanks so much! Yeah I’m hoping they’ll approve it but I’m not holding my breath. I’m already working on plan b to get the finances done.