The panniculectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the pannus, an apron of skin that hangs over the lower pubic area in patients who have lost a significant amount of weight.  This excess skin is not only heavy and bulky but in some patients it makes it difficult to maintain good hygiene under the flap of skin.  This excess skin can limit daily life, physical activity and the ability to exercise. Removal of this skin can be life changing, allowing for freer movement, more mobility and improved hygiene. This can sometimes be considered a functional surgery and is similar to the abdominoplasty in that the resulting scars are in the same location.  Sometimes additional liposuction is used to enhance and optimize the results.