What is an apron belly and how can it be treated?

Wellbeing

Let’s be real. It is a fact that our bodies go through a lot over the years. These steps might include weight gain and loss, pregnancy, ageing, etc, and all these take their toll. One of these changes for some people is what’s known as an “apron belly or belly apron.” 

If you’ve heard of the term or think you might have one, fear not. You’re definitely not alone, and the good news is, there’s plenty you can do to change it. Let us explain what this situation is and how it can be treated.

What exactly is an apron belly?

Also called a “pannus” or “panniculus”, apron belly happens when there is excess skin and fat hanging from your abdomen, kind of like an apron. In some people, it is only a small flap over the lower abdomen. In others, it will hang down over the thighs and can feel much more noticeable, and sometimes, covering the private parts.

This situation usually occurs after extreme weight fluctuations, such as after pregnancy or after undergoing a drastic weight loss. Our skin can only stretch so far, and then it just doesn’t have that elastic snap-back quality to it anymore, and that’s totally normal. So if you’re dealing with an apron belly, allow us to let out the little secret — it’s not your fault, and it’s more common than you think. Genetics, lifestyle, and age also play quite a role. 

Why does it happen?

A belly apron happens because of a variety of reasons and will differ from person to person. One of the biggest reasons is pregnancy – getting pregnant stretches out the muscles and skin around your abdomen. Rapid weight gain and then losing weight quickly can also be a big contributor.

The more your skin is stretched out and then returns, the less elastic it will be in the long run. Genetics also comes into play – some people’s skin will rebound faster than others. And then there’s aging, which doesn’t help, of course; as we get older, our skin also loses some of its firmness.

It’s important to remember that having a belly apron isn’t necessarily a sign that you’re unhealthy. It’s more about how your body stores fat and how your skin responds to stretching — it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with your fitness or overall health.

What problems can this situation cause?

Other than the visible presence of a belly, which can seriously affect your confidence level, it can also cause physical discomfort. The skin under the fold will become sweaty and sometimes irritated with friction, which can lead to rashes or infection if not cleaned and maintained regularly. Other people will also endure lower back pain because carrying excess fat on your front ends up putting stress on your lower back.

In such extreme conditions, the condition can render some exercises or movements very painful to undertake. It’s because of this that a few affected opt for treatments. Not only for cosmetic purposes, but for comfort and well-being as well.

How can this be treated?

Now, the moment that everybody was waiting to know is here: what can you actually do to treat this situation?

You can start with lifestyle changes, a balance,d healthy diet, and regular exercise can be extremely helpful. Cardio activity will burn fat across your body, and strength training — especially exercises that engage your core — will help to tighten muscles under. Staying well-hydrated and moisturizing your skin can also help you make your skin more flexible, though these alone probably won’t get rid of stretched skin once it totally sets in.

If you’re looking for non-surgical options, there are treatments like radiofrequency skin tightening or ultrasound therapy. These can gently firm your skin but usually tend to work best in mild cases, and they will usually require multiple sessions to see noticeable results. For a more severe case, surgery could be the option. A panniculectomy is actually a surgical procedure you can do to eliminate the belly’s surplus fat and skin. Insurance will cover it at times when the apron is responsible for medical complications, as infections. 

You can also go for a tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty), which not only excises the surplus skin but also tightens stomach muscles for a flat, smooth look. However, tummy tucks are often deemed cosmetic and, therefore, insurance may not cover the procedure. Both procedures will need some time for recovery, so be sure to discuss patiently with a skilled surgeon what’s best for you.

At the end of the day, an apron belly isn’t something you should be ashamed of. It’s just something that’s part of so many people’s life stories. If you choose to roll with it, control it with healthy lifestyles, or seek out treatment from professionals, the most important thing is what you feel, both inside and out. Your body speaks volumes about you, and that’s something you truly need to celebrate.