A flatter, firmer midsection.

A panniculectomy is a more focused procedure. It removes the overhanging skin and fat that sits below the navel, which is common after major weight loss, without addressing the underlying muscles or the shape of the belly button. A tummy tuck goes further: it also tightens the separated abdominal muscles, refines the contour with liposuction, and reshapes the belly button so the result looks natural. Dr. Kashan will assess which procedure suits your anatomy and goals, or whether a combination of the two makes more sense.

It can be, when the overhanging skin causes documented symptoms that qualify it as medically necessary. Dr. Kashan’s practice works with out-of-network benefits for eligible cases, and the earlier you start gathering documentation with your primary care provider, the smoother the process tends to be. A cosmetic tummy tuck is a self-pay procedure. The plastic surgery insurance article walks through how coverage typically works for procedures like this, and it is worth reading before your consultation.

Yes. Pregnancy and significant weight change can cause the two sides of the abdominal muscles to separate, a condition known as rectus diastasis. Dr. Kashan repairs this as part of a tummy tuck by suturing the muscles back together, which restores a flatter core and stronger central support. This is one of the reasons a tummy tuck produces a firmer result than a panniculectomy alone.