Panniculectomy and abdominoplasty are both surgical procedures that address excess abdominal skin and fat, but they differ in their scope. Panniculectomy primarily focuses on removing the pannus or overhanging skin and fat, while abdominoplasty includes additional steps like muscle tightening and contouring. Panniculectomy is often considered a medical necessity for individuals dealing with functional issues related to the excess skin, whereas abdominoplasty is more commonly sought for cosmetic enhancement.