Can An Abdominal Panniculectomy Be Done On A Kidney Transplant Patient?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I had a kidney transplant Sept 2022. I also had gastric Bypass 2018. I was 405 lbs and now I am 190 lbs at 5’7″. #1. Do you have experience working with kidney transplant patients? #2. Is it possible for me to get a panniculectomy or tummy tuck without harming my new kidney? As you can imagine I have a TON OF SKIN especially around my stomach area and I really need help and guidance.

A: As long as you have medical clearance from your nephrologist you should be able to safely undergo a panniculectomy. The cadaveric kidney is usually on the upper anterior abdominal wall but that is not a problem with a skin excision procedure which is what a panniculectomy is. I have done several tummy tuck procedures in kidney transplant patients without any healing issues.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon