Definition: Panniculectomy is the surgical removal of the pannus, a hanging "apron" of excess abdominal skin left behind after massive weight loss.
A panniculectomy differs from a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) in that it does not necessarily involve the tightening of the abdominal muscles. Although it can be done in conjunction with the muscle-tightening of a tummy tuck, the term is generally used to describe a removal of larger amounts of skin and fat than is the case with most tummy tucks.
In some cases, the procedure is covered (partially or in full) by insurance, due to health problems created by the presence of the pannus (i.e., mobility problems, skin infections).
Pronunciation: puhn-ick-yu-LECK-tuh-mee
