Bariatric patients with subcutaneous fat and excess skin below the belly button should consider a panniculectomy. Before and after pictures will illustrate what the procedure can accomplish, so patients do not have unrealistic expectations. The procedure is not for cosmetic purposes. The main goal is to improve personal hygiene and prevent moisture from being trapped within the folds of skin, which can cause body odor and rashes. Because it is a procedure to improve physical health, many insurance companies will help pay for the surgery, especially if the individual has already undergone a bariatric operation. Following the surgery, it will be important to follow the doctor's mandates to the letter. In some cases, patients will require drainage tubes to rid the body of excess cavity fluids that can harbor bacteria for a potential infection.