Panniculectomy vs LBL Questions on Cost, Recovery, Results

My insurance just approved a panniculectomy I am scheduled for the end of this month. I am concerned the more I read here it seems them more that I hear that the LBL is the way to go.

How much should I expect to pay for the upgrade?

If I can not swing the LBL should I put off the Panniculectomy until I can afford the LBL? That will be no time soon I am in between jobs and after I start the new postion I will not be able to take time off for a while.

How much recovery time will I need after the panniculetcomy? I have a half marathon and a half ironman scheduled this summer.


Thanks,
Jon

Here is a web site that has some info...

http://www.yourplasticsurgeryguide.com/tummy-tuck/panniculec tomy.htm

 I would think it depends on the reason your ins. co. approved you for the PS ..   If it's b/c you're diabetic and your docs are worried about increased chances of infection in the folds of loose skin (which is usually the case), then I have a hunch they will only approve the Panni , since that is usually where the risk of infection crops up  (I guess b/c being close to the urinary organs?) ..   The Panni is also sometimes approved as part of a hernia procedure, if you have, e.g. an umbilical hernia or internal one.   

  If, on the other hand, they are approving in on a cosmetic basis or some such (which is rare), they might spring for the full LBL, which involves more skin removal and tightening than with the standard Panni.  On the other hand, even if they deny the LBL, since they ARE paying for the Panni then the surgeon may allow you to pay out of pocket for the cash difference and still do the full LBL.   I would think at most it wouldn't be more than $5K extra.

  Good luck!