Written and medically reviewed by
Dr. Ashutosh Shah, M.S., M.Ch., D.N.B.
Founder and Plastic Surgeon, Elegance Clinic, Surat. 22+ years in practice.
What is hanging abdominal skin (pannus)?
A pannus is a thick apron of loose skin and fat that hangs down over the lower abdomen. It usually forms after major weight loss, when the skin has stretched too far to bounce back.
Many people in Surat notice this after bariatric surgery or after losing weight on Mounjaro, Ozempic or other GLP-1 medicines. The fold can be small or it can hang past the groin.
Why it happens after major weight loss
When you carry extra weight for years, the skin stretches and loses its elastic fibres. After rapid weight loss the fat shrinks, but the skin stays loose.
- Stretched skin that has lost its natural elasticity
- Rapid weight loss from surgery or GLP-1 medicines like Ozempic
- Older skin that recovers more slowly
- Repeated weight gain and loss over many years
Risks of leaving it untreated
- Trapped moisture that leads to fungal infections and rashes under the fold
- Skin breakdown, raw patches and a constant bad odour
- Back and posture strain from the extra hanging weight
- Difficulty with hygiene, clothing and daily movement
- Low confidence and emotional distress
How we treat hanging abdominal skin (pannus) in Surat
The right treatment depends on how much skin hangs and whether the abdominal muscles are loose. Your surgeon plans this carefully at your consultation.
Surgical options
- Panniculectomy to remove the hanging apron of skin
- Tummy tuck to remove skin and tighten the muscle wall
- Body lift for skin that also sags around the hips and back
Non-surgical and supportive options
- RF and HIFU skin tightening for mild looseness
- EMS muscle stimulation to support core tone
- Nutrition and protein guidance to protect skin quality
What results to expect
After surgery the lower abdomen looks flatter and the hanging fold is gone. Hygiene becomes easier and clothes fit better. Scars settle over several months and stay low so they hide under underwear.
Why patients choose Elegance Clinic in Surat
- Dr Ashutosh Shah is highly experienced in post weight loss body contouring
- Honest advice and a clear written estimate with EMI options
- Careful, low and well hidden scar planning for natural results
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