Abdominolipoplasty: a system of classification and treatment for combined abdominoplasty and suction-assisted lipectomy

The use of Fibrin Sealants in Reducing Drain Output in Abdominoplasty: Is it Useful?

Background

Abdominoplasty is a common surgical procedure in which excess abdominal skin and fat are reduced to improve body contouring. Fibrin sealant has been proposed to reduce postsurgical bleeding and exudation. In this study, we evaluated whether there was a significant statistical difference in surgical output between the use of fibrin glue and its nonuse in abdominoplasty surgery, specifically in reducing bleeding and exudation.

Material and methods

A retrospective chart review of 68 postbariatric abdominoplasty patients (58 females, 10 males) was performed. We divided the patients into Group A (30 cases, 44%), in which we used fibrin sealant, and Group B (38 cases, 56%), in which we did not use fibrin glue. We calculated the total amount of liquid in suction drainages until the day of their removal. Statistical analysis included the independent t-test with a significance level of 0.05.

Results

The average drainage output in Group A was 620.0 ± 375.0 mL, whereas in Group B, it was 500.0 ± 290.0 mL. Results indicate an insignificant correlation between the use of fibrin glue and the amount of liquid in the surgical drains (t = 1.52, p = 0.13). The result is not significant at p <.05 according to the independent t-test.

Conclusion

The use of fibrin sealant surely has a high value in all surgical branches to reduce postoperative complications, but in our study, we did not find any advantages in its use for reducing surgical drain output in abdominoplasty patients.

Limitations of Patient-Controlled Epidural Analgesia Following Abdominoplasty

BACKGROUND

Effective postoperative pain management is essential for patient satisfaction and an uneventful postoperative course, particularly in body contouring procedures. Systemic analgesic regimens can be supported by regional procedures, such as the transverse abdominis plane (TAP) block, but these have a limited duration of action. In contrast, thoracic epidural analgesia offers the possibility of a longer-lasting, individualized regional anesthesia administered by a patient-controlled analgesia pump.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a patient-controlled epidural analgesia to better classify the clinical value of this procedure in abdominoplasties.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This work reviewed the digital medical charts of patients who underwent selective abdominoplasty without combined surgical procedures between September 2018 and August 2022. Evaluated data comprise the postoperative analgesia regimen, including on-demand medication, mobilization time, inpatient length of stay, and clinical outcome. The patients were grouped by the presence of a thoracic epidural catheter. This catheter was placed before anesthetic induction and a saturation dose was preoperatively applied. Postoperative PCEA patients received a basal rate and could independently administer boluses. Basal rate was individually adjusted during daily additional pain visits.

RESULTS

The study cohort included 112 patients. Significant differences in the demand for supportive nonepidural opiate medication were shown between the patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) group (n = 57) and the non-PCEA group (n = 55), depending on the time after surgery. PCEA patients demanded less medication during the early postoperative days (POD 0: PCEA 0.13 (±0.99) mg vs non-PCEA 2.59 (±4.55) mg, P = 0.001; POD 1: PCEA 0.79 mg (±3.06) vs non-PCEA 2.73 (±3.98) mg, P = 0.005), but they required more during the later postoperative phase (POD 3: PCEA 2.76 (±5.60) mg vs non-PCEA 0.61 (±2.01) mg, P = 0.008; POD 4: PCEA 1.64 (±3.82) mg vs non-PCEA 0.07 (±2.01) mg, P = 0.003). In addition, PCEA patients achieved full mobilization later (PCEA 2.67 (±0.82) days vs non-PCEA 1.78 (±1.09) days, P = 0.001) and were discharged later (PCEA 4.84 (±1.23) days vs non-PCEA 4.31 (±1.37) days, P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Because the postoperative benefits of PCEA are limited to potent analgesia immediately after abdominoplasty, less cumbersome, time-limited regional anesthesia procedures (such as TAP block) appear not only adequate but also more effective.

Abdominoplasty after massive weight loss. Safety preservation fascia technique and clinical outcomes in a large single series-comparative study

Introduction

Weight loss after bariatric surgery causes very important modifications to the patient's silhouette. Abdominal fat and skin excess reduction are associated with several complications. The most frequent are seroma and hematoma whereas major complications, such as pulmonary embolism, are less frequent. This study aimed to describe our technical procedure for abdominoplasty in patients with massive weight loss after bariatric surgery.

Methods

In total, 196 patients were included. All patients who underwent abdominoplasty classic (group A) and abdominoplasty with the preservation and lift of Scarpa fascia (group B) and with umbilical transposition between May 2018 and May 2021 were included. Patients with concomitant correction of ventral hernia were excluded. Demographic and operative data were analyzed according to comorbidities and postoperative complications.

Results

There were 160 (81.6%) women. The mean age was 43.6 years; the mean weight was 86.7 kg; and the mean BMI was 28.6 kg/m2. Five patients (2.5%) presented postoperative seroma. Four patients (2%) presented partial dehiscence/skin necrosis one of them requiring a revision. Finally, 26 patients presented a postoperative complication, with an overall incidence of 12.6%. The average postoperative hospital stay was 3.6. The rates of seroma were significantly higher in men, patients with a BMI > 30 kg/m2, and aged >50 years.

Conclusion

Preserving Scarpa Fascia during surgical post-bariatric patient procedures reduces the seroma formation and the scar complication and reduces the tension of the inguinal-pubic region with correction of our deformation after weight loss. Improves reducing the drain and reducing seroma incidence suction and hospital stay.

Indications of Oblique Flankplasty

The oblique flankplasty is an important alternative in truncal body contouring surgery. Because of the proximity and direction of the incision, it is effective in narrowing the waist and addressing the challenging flank area. There are pros and cons to the technique, specifically when compared with a lower body lift, and these should be carefully considered for each patient.

Postbariatric Abdominoplasty: A Comparative Study on Scarpa Fascia Preservation Versus Classical Technique

BACKGROUND

Abdominoplasties performed with Scarpa Fascia preservation, improve recovery and reduce complications, particularly seroma. Bariatric patients who experience massive weight loss frequently seek body contouring procedures and represent a high-risk group. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of abdominoplasty with Scarpa Fascia preservation versus the classical technique in a bariatric population.

METHODS

A retrospective observational cohort study was performed between March 2015 and March 2021 in 65 postbariatric patients who underwent a classic full abdominoplasty (group A, N = 25) or a similar procedure except for the preservation of Scarpa fascia (group B, N = 40). Total and daily drain output, time until drain removal, long drainers (≥ 6 days), length of hospital stay, emergency department visit, readmission to the hospital, reoperation, local and systemic complications were the outcomes evaluated.

RESULTS

Group B had a 3-day reduction in time until drain removal (p < 0.001), a 62.6% reduction of total drain output (p < 0.001) and a 3-day reduction in the length of the hospital stay (p < 0.001). Long drainers (≥ 6 days) were highly reduced (from 56.0% in group A to 7.5% in group B) (p < 0.001). There was a lower incidence of liquid collections in group B, with a 66.7% reduction in seroma incidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Abdominoplasty with Scarpa Fascia preservation improves recovery by reducing drain output, allowing earlier drain removal and reducing long periods with suction drains. It also reduces hospital stay and seroma incidence. This technique modifies the high-risk postbariatric patient in such a major way that he behaves like a nonbariatric.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Female Abdominal Landmarks and Their Improvements Using Polydioxanone Thread Placement for Umbilicus Elevation

Background

Different landmarks on the abdomen have been used to evaluate abdominal aesthetics. However, because researchers use different methods for landmark measurements, there is no consensus as to which landmarks to use for either assessing abdominal aesthetics or guiding surgical planning.

Methods

Female model photographs were analyzed for abdominal aesthetics with the umbilicus as the key dividing point. Because of the limitation on the number of landmarks that could be shown with model photographs, abdominal landmarks on actual female patients were studied. The variations of landmark metrics due to positional changes and before/after our polydioxanone (PDO)-assisted high-definition liposuctions were recorded.

Results

For model photographs, the abdominal apex to mid-umbilicus distance (AU) versus midumbilicus to lower abdominal skin crease (UC) ratio was 1.626. Almost all bony landmarks demonstrated significant caudal shift when switched from standing to supine positions. Meanwhile, other landmarks also underwent substantial changes. This provides evidence that metrics taken in different positions cannot be compared with one another. As expected, after umbilici were elevated with our special technique, the relevant metrics improved postoperatively, with results close to being ideal. However, marked deviations from the mean measured values do exist.

Conclusions

Abdominal landmarks change with positional adjustment. In standing position, many landmarks can be used for assessment of abdominal aesthetics. Ideally, efforts should be made such that the final AU/UC is close to 1.618, and XU/UP and UIC close to ideal, for satisfactory surgical results. Nevertheless, in actual practice, umbilicus positions can be varied to accomplish desired goals.

Lipoabdominoplasty: What We Have Implemented and What We Have Modified over 26 Years

Lipoabdominoplasty is one of the most commonly performed procedures in body-contouring surgery. We present a retrospective study of our 26 years of experience to improve the results and assure the greatest possible safety in lipoabdominoplasty. We include all of our female patients who underwent lipoabdominoplasty performed from July 1996 to June 2022, dividing the patients into two groups: group I underwent circumferential liposuction avoiding abdominal flap liposuction for the first 7 years, and group II underwent circumferential liposuction including abdominal flap liposuction for the subsequent 19 years, pointing out the differences in the processes, results, and complications of both groups. Over a period of 26 years, 973 female patients underwent lipoabdominoplasty: 310 in group I and 663 in group II. Ages were very similar; however, weight, BMI, amount of liposuction material, and weight of the abdominal flap removed were higher in group I. Twenty percent of patients in group I were obese compared to 7% in group II. The average amount of liposuction in group I was 4990 mL compared to 3373 mL in group II and 1120 g of abdominal flap in group I versus 676 g in group II. Minor and major complications were 11.6% and 1.2% in group I versus 9.2% and 0.6% in group II, respectively. In our more than 26 years of performing lipoabdominoplasty, we have maintained most of our initial procedures. These processes have allowed us to perform surgery safely and effectively with a low morbidity rate.

[Lipoabdominoplasty in post-bariatric Surgery: a relevant Alternative to Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty?]

BACKGROUND

The number of bariatric procedures, and thus also the number of post-bariatric operations, has increased dramatically in recent years. Although long scars are common in post-bariatric surgery and accepted in favour of body shape reconstruction, we increasingly notice the wish for aesthetically pleasing results in addition to the desire for body contouring. In particular, Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty (FdL) is viewed critically by younger patients after massive weight loss due to the visible vertical scar. Surgeons are also often bothered by the unsatisfying aesthetic outcome as well as the higher rate of complications.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 20 female patients with massive weight loss following bariatric surgery, who received lipoabdominoplasty instead of Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty in the period from January 2019 to June 2020. Data analysis was based on measurements of preoperative vertical and horizontal excess skin and fat (Pittsburgh Rating Scale), Body Mass Index, surgical technique and final result.

RESULTS

Twenty female patients with an indication for FdL abdominoplasty underwent radical liposuction of the abdomen combined with abdominoplasty. The original weight before massive weight reduction ranged between 100 and 168 kg. Average weight reduction was 56.5 kg. The mean BMI was 27.3 kg/m². The average age of our cohort was 40 years. One patient (5 %) had a major complication. This was an infected seroma which could be treated conservatively. Two other patients (10 %) developed an uninfected seroma as a minor complication.

CONCLUSION

Our work shows that lipoabdominoplasty can be performed safely and well even in patients after massive weight loss. It is possible to achieve good body contours without vertical incisions and with a high degree of patient satisfaction. The number of patients who have to undergo FdL abdominoplasty can be successfully reduced by this technique.

Vertical Medial Thigh Lift with the 'Anchor L Liposculpture' Technique in Massive Weight Loss Patients: Preliminary results

BACKGROUND

Among all post bariatric surgical procedures, vertical thigh lift has the highest complication rates. Many modifications have been described to achieve better aesthetic results and decrease complication rates. The study aimed to present ''Anchor L Liposculpture Technique'' and discuss the results in the light of current literature.

METHOD

Between 2016 and 2020, 33 patients were operated with the Anchor L Liposculpture technique. In this technique, liposuction is performed similarly with the other techniques, but the liposuction area is not extended to posterior or anterior compartments to prevent complications. The technique also used a deepithelized flap to anchor the superficial fascial system to the pubic arch periosteum. The patients' characteristics (age, sex, body mass index, smoking history, amount of weight loss, comorbidities) volume of liposuction and postoperative complications were recorded. Results were compared between uncomplicated (group A) and complicated patients (group B).

RESULT

Six (n=6, %18.2) out of 33 patients experienced complications (Group B). There were no major complication. The most common complications are wound dehiscence (n = 2) and lymphocele (n = 2). All complication cases managed conservatively. Age and amount of liposuction were found to be statistically associated with increased complications. Other comparisons between group A and B did not show any significant difference. Scar migration was not observed in any patient during follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Anchor L Liposculpture technique is an easy-to-apply and reliable technique aimed better surgical results and lower complication rates. Surgeons especially at beginning of the learning curve or who experienced high complication rates can utilize this technique.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Influences of Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Therapy on Edema and Postoperative Patient's Satisfaction After Lipoabdominoplasty

BACKGROUND

Lipoabdominoplasty (LABP) is a frequently performed surgical procedure in the field of plastic surgery that often requires physical therapy in order to minimize postoperative complications, augment the postoperative outcomes, and enhance recovery. Intermittent pneumatic compression therapy (IPCT) is a physical therapy modality that may be used in the management of LABP population. This study aimed to assess the influences of intermittent pneumatic compression therapy on the resolution of edema and improvement in postoperative patient satisfaction following LABP.

METHODS

Forty-three females, aged 35-55 years, who underwent LABP, were involved in this prospective randomized study. They were divided into two groups: group A wherein 22 patients wore a compression garment (CG) for 24 h, through 4 weeks; group B wherein 21 patients wore CG besides the application of IPCT for 45 min, 3 times a week, for 4 weeks. The abdominal circumferences were measured at three positions: 3 cm above the umbilicus, at the umbilicus, and 3 cm below the umbilicus. Additionally, patient satisfaction rate was assessed by visual analog scale (VAS; in mm). All patients were assessed three times (Initial Assessment, During Assessment, and Final Assessment).

RESULTS

With reference to the abdominal circumferences at three levels and VAS satisfactory scores, there were statistically significant differences between both groups in Final Assessment (p < .04) in favor of group B.

CONCLUSION

Application of IPCT while wearing CG was superior as compared to CG alone in reducing the abdominal edema and improving postoperative patient satisfaction following LABP.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Abdominoplasty without Drains or Progressive Tension Suturing

BACKGROUND

Over the years, the techniques of performing abdominoplasty have been modified and altered. Some of these modifications include progressive tension suturing and preservation of sub-Scarpa fat. These alterations have been done to decrease the risk of postoperative seroma and hematoma formation. Abdominoplasty, without the use of drains, is well documented in the literature. Here, the authors describe that raising superficial flaps (in the sub-Scarpa fat plane) will reduce seroma formation risk. As a result, the use of drains and tension suturing can be avoided altogether.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted from January 2015 to January 2018. The data of patients were extracted from admission files and operative notes. All the procedures were done under general anesthesia using the same operative technique by a single surgeon at the same institute. This article describes the operative technique used, observations, and result in comparison to the literature.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients were included in the study for over three years; 89% were females, and the average age was 40 years, with a mean BMI of 25.1 kg/m². Liposuction was performed concomitantly in 56 patients, and rectus plication was done in 47. The overall complication rate was 14%, with the incidence of seroma and hematoma formation being 6% and 2%, respectively. This is comparable to the incidence found in the literature. The average hospital stay was 1.7 days, and the patients were followed for up to 6 months.

CONCLUSION

Abdominoplasty, when performed in superficial planes with preservation of sub-Scarpa fat, is safe in terms of improved flap vascularity and beneficial in reducing the risk of seroma and hematoma formation. It can be safely performed without drains or progressive tension suturing and reduces the operative time required, patient discomfort, and hospital-stay period.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

A New Surgical Approach to Body Contouring

BACKGROUND

The success of body contouring surgery will largely depend on the correct choice and performance of the technique, and utilization of the necessary scientific measures. Thus, this study sought to highlight the combination and evolution of the abdominoplasty-assisted liposuction technique, while individualizing each case for the patient's benefit.

METHOD

We present a series of 188 cases from the past 3 years (2017-2019), using our modification to the surgical technique: performing 360-degree liposuction first, and then abdominoplasty in the same surgical time. We show our aesthetic results, surgical time, and complications, so as to compare them with the literature.

RESULTS

Of the 188 cases, 184 were women (97.9%) and 4 were men (2.1%). In 11 cases (5.8%), we recorded 4 hours as a minimum surgical time and 8 hours in 16 cases (8.5%) as a maximum time. Regarding complications, hematomas were recorded in 1 case (0.5%) as the least frequent complication and seromas in 18 cases (9.6%) as the most frequent complication. The aesthetic results, although not objectively measurable, are flattering for both the patient and the surgeon, as shown by documented evidence (photographs) before and after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study supports favorable results. Modification of this technique has resulted in outstanding body contouring surgery. We hope this procedure can be reproduced because of its few complications and the pleasant results it yields.

The 100 Most-cited Articles in Abdominoplasty: A Bibliometric Analysis

Background:

Abdominoplasty is one of the most common aesthetic procedures performed globally. Research in this field is evolving, with recent emphasis on evidence-based surgery optimizing informed consent. This bibliometric analysis aimed to characterize emerging research trends and to assess the methodological quality of the highest impact abdominoplasty research.

Methods:

The 100 most-cited articles in abdominoplasty were identified on Web of Science, across all available journals and years (1950–2019). Study details, including the citation count, main subject, and outcome measures, were extracted from each article by 2 independent reviewers. The level of evidence of each study was also assessed.

Results:

The 100 most-cited articles in abdominoplasty were cited by a total of 2545 articles. Citations per article ranged from 206 to 34 (mean 65). Overall, 50 articles were assessed to be level of evidence 3, which is representative of the large number of cohort studies (n = 59) on the list. Similar numbers achieved levels 2, 4, and 5 (n = 16, 20, and 14), though none reached level 1. The main subject was operative technique in 50 articles, followed by outcomes in 34 articles. Only 7 articles utilized objective cosmetic outcome measures. Patient-reported outcome measures were employed in 25 articles, though only 5 incorporated validated questionnaires.

Conclusions:

The most-cited research in abdominoplasty largely comprised low-to-moderate quality studies, with no article achieving the highest level of evidence. Contemporary high-quality evidence incorporating validated outcome measures is crucial to enhance shared decision-making, particularly in aesthetic procedures.

Abdominoplasty: My Preferred Techniques

BACKGROUND

Abdominoplasty has been evolving since the 1960s with many technical innovations throughout the years. It has become one of the most frequent and common procedures done in aesthetic plastic surgery, with the ultimate goal of not only to remove the excess tissue in the abdominal area but also to achieve an aesthetic trunk silhouette.

OBJECTIVE

The prime objective of this article was to describe our preferred approach for a full cosmetic abdominoplasty.

METHODS

We summarized all the key technical aspects from our shared surgical approach for abdominoplasty. The article describes collective experiences from authors performing the surgery in South America, North America, and Asia.

RESULTS

The key technical aspects identified were conservative muscle plication, customized excess tissue resection, and ultrasound-assisted liposuction to improve definition in the abdominal lines and body curves, combined with lipofilling. The aesthetic results are presented.

CONCLUSIONS

Abdominoplasty should be customized to every patient's anatomy and desired cosmetic outcome, taking into consideration all the anatomical areas surrounding the abdominal wall.

High Definition Lipoabdominoplasty

OBJECTIVE

To describe the author's experience with the high definition lipoabdominoplasty technique for the treatment of abdominal flaccidity and lipodystrophy, with correction of muscle diastasis and definition of body contours.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study analyzing the results of 146 patients operated on with the high definition lipoabdominoplasty procedure.

RESULTS

The average age was 37.93 years (25 to 58). The average body mass index was 25.68 kg/m² (19.6 to 29.9 kg/m²). Combined surgeries were associated in 76 cases (52%). The results obtained are demonstrated by comparing the pre and postoperative photos.

DISCUSSION

With the advent of high definition liposuction, the results improved significantly, reaching a higher degree of definition and giving a more athletic and aesthetically pleasing contour. However, this procedure is not free of complications, and should be performed cautiously, while following specific protocols. With proper patient selection, this technique provides excellent outcomes when combined with abdominoplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

High-Definition Excisional Body Contouring: Mini Lipoabdominoplasty (FIT Mommy) and Enhanced Viability Abdominoplasty

The abdominoplasty procedure poses a number of unique challenges. If the stigmata of the operation is to be avoided, careful planning and surgical execution are required. We describe our experience in full and mini abdominoplasties with a 360-degree approach, involving all muscular groups and body segments as described by high-definition liposculpture. Selective fat grafting is also safely performed in specific areas to improve projection and volume.

Sub-Scarpa's Lipectomy in Abdominoplasty: An Analysis of Risks and Rewards in 723 Consecutive Patients

BACKGROUND

During the course of performing abdominoplasties, a plastic surgeon will encounter a certain body habitus characterized by a thick, tethered, and excessively redundant upper skin flap. Often these patients also demonstrate diffuse and substantial fascial laxity. One approach to this problem involves direct thinning and release of the flap by resection of the sub-Scarpa's fat pad. In theory, this resection should be safe from a flap perfusion standpoint. However, the safety of the sub-Scarpa's resection has not been completely documented.

OBJECTIVES

The author sought to assess the safety and efficacy of sub-Scarpa's lipectomy in abdominoplasty.

METHODS

A total 723 patients were retrospectively examined and divided into 2 groups: those with (Group B) and those without (Group A) a sub-Scarpa's lipectomy component to the abdominoplasty. Because of differences in the baseline characteristics between the 2 groups, data analysis was performed with a logistic regression model and with propensity score matching.

RESULTS

The sub-Scarpa's lipectomy technique allowed for substantial thinning of the flap: the average weight of the resected fat pad was 411 g. Wide undermining allowed for substantial fascial correction, and excellent results were obtainable even in challenging cases. The sub-Scarpa's lipectomy group did not demonstrate an increase in either minor (<5 cm2) or major (>5 cm2) flap necrosis. However, there was a statistically significant increase in fat necrosis and seroma formation in Group B compared with Group A. In both groups, an increasing body mass index was a risk factor for fat necrosis and major flap necrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of a sub-Scarpa's lipectomy during abdominoplasty is a useful technique to consider for selected abdominoplasty candidates. The risks of minor and major flap loss do not seem to be increased compared to the standard abdominoplasty, but the risks of fat necrosis and seroma formation may be greater.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Evidenced-Based Approach to Abdominoplasty Update

The following publication was compiled as an evidence-based update for plastic surgeons performing abdominoplasty from a review of the published literature on that subject between January 2014 and February 2017. It is an overview of various aspects of abdominoplasty including preoperative patient assessment, variations and advances in both surgical and anesthetic technique, patient safety, and outcomes. It is intended to serve as an adjunct to previously published evidence-based reviews of abdominoplasty.

Achieving Aesthetic Results in the Umbilical Float Mini-Abdominoplasty: Patient Selection and Surgical Technique

BACKGROUND

The umbilical float mini-abdominoplasty has been criticized for low final umbilicus position and umbilical distortion. The authors believe that in the properly selected patient and with proper technique, the umbilical float can achieve superior aesthetic results in a subset of patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of all umbilical floats performed by two surgeons (B.A.H. and H.S.B.) at the authors' institution. Postoperative photographs were reviewed by 20 blinded evaluators.

RESULTS

Thirty-one female patients underwent umbilical float mini-abdominoplasty between 2010 and 2017. All patients had starting umbilicus position at or above the level of the iliac crest. The umbilicus was floated for a distance of 1 to 3.5 cm. Average umbilicus position was slightly above the midpoint between the xiphoid and pubis preoperatively, and slightly below the midpoint postoperatively. Final umbilicus was considered "too low" in five patients (18.5 percent), all of which were positioned at the level of the anterior superior iliac spine.

CONCLUSIONS

Optimal candidates for the umbilical float mini-abdominoplasty are postpartum women with normal body mass index, mild to moderate infraumbilical skin excess, and minimal to mild supraumbilical excess. Starting umbilicus position should be at or above the level of iliac crests, or slightly above the mid torso. Final umbilicus position should remain above the anterior superior iliac spine. The umbilical base is reattached with multiple sutures to prevent distortion. At least 10 cm of hairless lower abdominal skin should be maintained between the final scar and navel to prevent a low-appearing umbilicus.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

Safety of Lipoabdominoplasty Versus Abdominoplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Lipoabdominoplasty is a powerful operation to maintain a youthful physique for aging people, improve body contouring, and remove excess skin caused by massive weight loss. Nonetheless, it is controversial to combine abdominoplasty and liposuction because of the potential for vascular damage of the abdominal flap and increased complications. The purpose of this article was to determine the complication rates of lipoabdominoplasty compared with traditional abdominoplasty.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched through July of 2018. Study results were analyzed utilizing a fixed random effects model. The outcomes were expressed as relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on complications.

RESULTS

Overall, 17 trials enrolling 14,061 adult patients were searched. Of these patients, 577 (4.1%) developed seroma; 113 (0.8%) experienced hematoma; 783 (5.6%) experienced wound infection, dehiscence, or fat necrosis; 35 (0.2%) developed deep venous thrombosis; and 110 (0.7%) experienced scar deformity. A forest plot revealed fewer complications in the lipoabdominoplasty group than in the traditional abdominoplasty group (RR = 0.85; 95% CI 0.74-0.97; p = 0.017). Subgroup analysis showed that the lipoabdominoplasty group had a lower incidence of hematoma (RR = 0.56; 95% CI 0.36-0.86; p = 0.009) and seroma (RR = 0.69; 95% CI 0.57-0.85; p = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

Lipoabdominoplasty is a valuable tool to perfect body shape. This meta-analysis showed no evidence that it was associated with higher rates of complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Abdominoplasty with Circumferential Liposuction: A Review of 1000 Consecutive Cases

BACKGROUND

The authors present the technique called "abdominoplasty with concurrent circumferential liposuction," where the whole trunk is addressed as a single aesthetic unit.

METHODS

Between January of 2008 and June of 2016, abdominoplasty with circumferential liposuction was performed in 1000 patients (984 women and 16 men) by the senior author. Patients had a mean body mass index of 27.5 kg/m (range, 18.1 to 34.5 5 kg/m). Liposuction was performed circumferentially and the abdominal flap was detached up to the costal margins. Simultaneous fat grafting was also performed if required. Outcomes and complications were documented.

RESULTS

Traditional abdominoplasty incisions were used in 359 patients, whereas extended incisions were used in 641 patients. The mean duration of follow-up was 27 months (range, 12 days to 61 months), and the mean duration of surgery was 154 minutes (range, 109 to 260 minutes). The mean amount of simultaneously aspired supernatant lipoaspirate was 1940 cc (range, 1700 to 4580 cc). Simultaneous gluteal fat grafting was performed in 34 percent. None of the patients had any skin necrosis. The most common complication was seroma (19 percent).

CONCLUSIONS

In abdominoplasty, the entire central body should be considered as a single unit. Circumferential widespread liposuction with standard undermining of the abdominal flap up to the costal margins is safe and yields superior aesthetic outcomes.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

A Report of 736 High-Definition Lipoabdominoplasties Performed in Conjunction with Circumferential VASER Liposuction

BACKGROUND

Several innovations and modifications to the abdominal lipectomy procedure have been performed through the years. Despite recent improvements, the lack of natural results, including high scars, navel deformities, and "tense" abdomen, are still challenging. The objective of this study is to present an alternative technique of combined 360-degree truncal liposuction with abdominal definition, abdominoplasty, and neoumbilicoplasty.

METHODS

From January of 2005 to June of 2017, 736 VASER-assisted lipoabdominoplasties were performed. Only healthy women with a body mass index below 33 were included. A three-step procedure was performed: (1) truncal liposculpture, (2) dermolipectomy and plication of the rectus abdominis muscle, and (3) neoumbilicoplasty through a butterfly technique. The follow-up included photographs and medical assessment with a mean of 2 years (up to 5 years). A nonstandardized survey was performed to self-evaluate the results.

RESULTS

Six hundred seventy patients answered the survey (91 percent). Six hundred fifteen patients were satisfied with the procedure (91.79 percent). Minor complications were reported: seroma in 7.3 percent, prolonged bruising in 10 percent, and swelling in 18 percent. Neither flap necrosis nor infections were reported. Neoumbilicoplasty was performed in all patients. Additional procedures were required in 4.6 percent.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-assisted lipoabdominoplasty is an alternative lipectomy technique that prevents stigmata of the procedure. The abdominal definition improves the shape and recreates the superficial anatomy. Neoumbilicoplasty shape, form, and choice of its position over the abdominal wall provide significant improvements in results.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

Evaluation of the Number of Progressive Tension Sutures Needed to Prevent Seroma in Abdominoplasty with Drains: A Single-Blind, Prospective, Comparative, Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Seroma formation has become the most reported complication after abdominoplasties. In 2000, progressive tension sutures (PTS) were described and reported to be associated with a seroma rate of 0.1%. Surgeons worldwide use PTS to prevent seroma; however, there are discrepancies in the number of PTS commonly used, starting from five up to 35 sutures. The absence of standardization may cause a lack of seroma prevention, increased surgical time, and general hesitation to perform the technique.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether 11 PTS are sufficient to prevent seroma in abdominoplasties.

METHODS

We performed a single-blind, prospective, comparative, randomized clinical trial of 63 healthy patients from January to December 2017. Patients were divided into groups: group 1, classic abdominoplasty without the use of PTS and drains; group 2, abdominoplasty with the use of 11 PTS and drains; and group 3, abdominoplasty with the use of 22 PTS and drains. The duration of the surgical technique, presence of clinical seroma, number of aspirations, and days to drain removal were evaluated. The Cochran-Armitage, Fisher exact, Kruskal-Wallis, and t tests were used in the statistical analyses.

RESULTS

PTS reduced the rate of seroma formation to 3.5%. Results showed that there is a benefit in using 11 PTS instead of 22 PTS because using more sutures led to an increased surgical time (30 min vs. 13 min) and possible complications. Compared to patients with PTS, those without PTS underwent more seroma aspirations and delayed drain removal.

CONCLUSIONS

Eleven PTS should be used in classic abdominoplasties.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Abdominoplasty with "Scarpa Fascia" preservation: Case Report

INTRODUCTION

Abdominoplasty is one of the most performed operations in Plastic Surgery in the world. Postoperative seroma is one of the most frequently cited complications in literature. The aim of this study is to propose our experience with abdominoplasty with Scarpa Fascia preservationand compare it with recent scientific literature.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We present the case of a 55-year-old woman underwent bariatric surgery in 2014, after which she lost 55kg of weight. We decided to perform an abdominoplasty with transposition of the umbilicus and preservation of the Scarpa Fascia. In fact, this technique seems to have a positive impact on reducing seroma formation, reducing the amount of drained fluids and the drainage time.

DISCUSSION

The saving of the adipose-fascial layer according to different Authors would allow the reduction of the volume of drained fluid, of the time spent by the drains and the average hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

The abdominoplasty with the Scarpa Fascia preservation is a safe, repeatable technique with good aesthetic results. The saving of deep adipose tissue allows to reduce the time and the quantity of drained liquids. In our experience patient undergoing this technique has shorter hospital stays with no complications.

The Bidirectional, Absorbable, No-Drain Abdominoplasty

This article outlines the author's technique, and the concepts of Bidirectional, Absorbable, No-Drain Abdominoplasty (BAND-Abdominoplasty). The attendant advantages and disadvantages are reviewed in the context of a retrospective, 5-year, single surgeon series. Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these evidence-based medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Lipoabdominoplasty with Progressive Traction Sutures

BACKGROUND

Proactively preserving Scarpa's fascia and thus its intrinsic lymphatic drainage and tensile strength for suture placement can eliminate the need for drains after lipoabdominoplasty and therefore reduce the rate of seroma development. In this article, we describe the effectiveness of a modified progressive traction suture (PTS) technique, which enables us to lessen the most common complications and avoid hospital readmission; these sutures take 3-5 minutes of additional surgery time.

METHODS

Two hundred seventy-six patients (mean age, 38 years; range, 19-67 years), with a mean body mass index of 25 were included in this study. All patients underwent complete lipoabdominoplasty with ultrasound-assisted liposuction (VASER) throughout the abdomen and flanks. Abdominal rectus plication was performed in 100% of cases. All patients were operated on under spinal anesthesia and stayed overnight in hospital.

RESULTS

Of the 276 patients, 1.8% developed postoperative seromas. No patients developed hematomas. New wound closure was needed in 1.4% of patients, performed within 7-10 days of surgery, scar revision in 4.7%, residual liposuction under local anesthesia in 9.7%, and liposuction under sedation in 1%; deep vein thrombosis without thromboembolic phenomenon developed in 1%, none resulting in death. In addition, the use of a PTS technique is a time-saving procedure because it takes the surgeons between 3-5 minutes of operative time, unlike that of adhesion and/or separate traction, which takes between 30 and 45 minutes.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of PTSs helped diminish complications such as seroma and hematoma and prevent additional cost involving hospital readmission and/or further surgery. Furthermore, use of these sutures required only 3-5 minutes of additional operative time.

Deep-Plane Lipoabdominoplasty in East Asians

Background

The objective of this study was to develop a new surgical technique by combining traditional abdominoplasty with liposuction. This combination of operations permits simpler and more accurate management of various abdominal deformities. In lipoabdominoplasty, the combination of techniques is of paramount concern. Herein, we introduce a new combination of liposuction and abdominoplasty using deep-plane flap sliding to maximize the benefits of both techniques.

Methods

Deep-plane lipoabdominoplasty was performed in 143 patients between January 2007 and May 2014. We applied extensive liposuction on the entire abdomen followed by a sliding flap through the deep plane after repairing the diastasis recti. The abdominal wound closure was completed with repair of Scarpa's fascia.

Results

The average amount of liposuction aspirate was 1,400 mL (700–3,100 mL), and the size of the average excised skin ellipse was 21.78×12.81 cm (from 15×10 to 25×15 cm). There were no major complications such as deep-vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. We encountered 22 cases of minor complications: one wound infection, one case of skin necrosis, two cases of undercorrection, nine hypertrophic scars, and nine seromas. These complications were solved by conservative management or simple revision.

Conclusions

The use of deep-plane lipoabdominoplasty can correct abdominal deformities more effectively and with fewer complications than traditional abdominoplasty.

Liposuction Preserves the Morphological Integrity of the Microvascular Network: Flow Cytometry and Confocal Microscopy Evidence in a Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

Liposuction is a very popular technique in plastic surgery that allows for the taking adipose tissue (AT) on large surfaces with little risk of morbidity. Although liposuction was previously shown to preserve large perforator vessels, little is known about the effects of liposuction on the microvasculature network.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of liposuction on the preservation of microvessels at tissue and cellular levels by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy following abdominoplasty procedure.

METHODS

Percentage of endothelial cells in AT from liposuction and en bloc AT was determined by multicolor flow cytometry. Moreover, vessel density and adipocyte content were analyzed in situ in 3 different types of AT (en bloc, from liposuction, and residual AT after liposuction) by confocal microscopy.

RESULTS

Flow cytometric analysis showed that en bloc AT contained 30.6% ± 12.9% and AT from liposuction 21.6% ± 9.9% of endothelial cells (CD31(pos)/CD45(neg)/CD235a(neg)/CD11b(neg)) (P = .009). Moreover, analysis of paired AT from the same patients (n = 5) confirmed a lower percentage of endothelial cells in AT from liposuction compared to en bloc AT (17.7% ± 4.5% vs 21.9% ± 3.3%, P = .031). Likewise, confocal microscopy showed that en bloc AT contained 8.2% ± 6.3%, AT from liposuction only 1.6% ± 1.0% (P < .0001), and AT after liposuction 8.9% ± 4.1% (P = .111) of CD31(pos) vessels. Conversely, adipocyte content was 39.5% ± 14.5% in the en bloc AT, 45% ± 18.4% in AT from liposuction (P = .390), and 18.8 ± 14.8% in AT after liposuction (P = .011).

CONCLUSIONS

For the first time, we demonstrate that liposuction preserves the microvascular network. Indeed, a low percentage of endothelial cells was found in AT from liposuction and we confirm the persistence of microvessels in the tissue after liposuction.

[The "two positions" lipoabdominoplasty]

BACKGROUNDS

Lipoabdominoplasty is a way to improve morphological outcomes by treating the areas not accessible to resection during classical abdominoplasty, especially hips. However, patients can present a lateral and posterior fat extension, not accessible to an anterior liposuction. This situation is managed by a first step with liposuction in the prone position. The aim of this study was to determine whether lipoabdominoplasty performed in two positions increases morbidity compared with lipoabdominoplasty in supine position only.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 137 patients who underwent lipoabdominoplasty between 2009 to 2013. Eighty-five patients underwent a one position lipoabdomynoplasty and 52 a two positions lipoabdomynoplasty. Medical records were reviewed to collect data regarding patient demographics, operative technique, volume of liposuction and complications.

RESULTS

The posterior liposuction has significantly increased the length of procedure (mean: 43.3 minutes). The volume of liposuction was significantly higher when the procedure was performed with prone and supine position (2789.6 mL versus 1373.8 mL, P<0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding complications and blood loss.

CONCLUSION

Lipoabdominoplasty in two positions is an effective technique with the same morbidity as a lipoabdominoplasty in supine position only. The procedure finds its indication, between classic abdominoplasty and bodylift, for patients with lateral and posterior fat extension without posterior skin excess.

Dissection Technique for Abdominoplasty: A Prospective Study on Scalpel versus Diathermocoagulation (Coagulation Mode)

Background:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the dissection technique on outcomes and complications after a full abdominoplasty, comparing 2 different techniques used to raise the abdominal flap: the steel scalpel and the diathermocoagulation device on coagulation mode.

Methods:

A prospective study was performed at a single center from January 2009 to December 2011 of patients submitted to abdominoplasty with umbilical transposition. Two groups were identified: group A, abdominoplasty performed with steel scalpel/knife; and group B, abdominoplasty performed with diathermocoagulation on coagulation mode. Several variables were determined: general characteristics, time until drain removal, daily and total volume of drain output, length of hospital stay, operative time, readmission, reoperation, emergency department visits, and local and systemic complications.

Results:

A total of 119 full abdominoplasties were performed in women (group A, 39 patients; group B, 80 patients). There were no statistically significant differences between groups with respect to general characteristics, except for body mass index, comorbidities, and weight of the surgical specimen; there were no differences for operative time, systemic complications, hematoma, and necrosis incidence. The scalpel group had a highly significant reduction of 54.56% on total drain output, and a 2.65 day reduction on time to drain removal and no reported cases of seroma or healing problems (difference of 81.25% and 90.00%, respectively, between the 2 groups).

Conclusions:

Performing abdominal dissection with scalpel had a beneficial effect on patient recovery, as it reduced time requested for drain removal, total drain output, and incidence of seroma and wound healing problems.

Minimising complications in abdominoplasty: An approach based on the root cause analysis and focused preventive steps

Significant complications still occur after abdominoplasty, the rate varies widely in different series. This variation suggests that there is a lot of scope for improvement. This paper reviews the various complications and also the technical improvements reported in the last 20 years. The root cause of each complication is analysed and preventive steps are suggested based on the literature and the author's own personal series with very low complication rates. Proper case selection, risk stratified prophylaxis of thromboembolism, initial synchronous liposuction, flap elevation at the Scarpa fascia level, discontinuous incremental flap dissection, vascular preservation and obliteration of the sub-flap space by multiple sutures emerge as the strongest preventive factors. It is proposed that most of the complications of abdominoplasty are preventable and that it is possible to greatly enhance the aesthetic and safety profile of this surgery.

The incidence and management of secondary abdominoplasty and secondary abdominal contour surgery

BACKGROUND

Limited data exist in the literature regarding the general incidence of secondary abdominal contour procedures and secondary abdominoplasty (excluding revisions) or specific recommendations for surgical management of these patients.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective chart review of 562 patients who underwent abdominal contouring procedures (liposuction and/or modified or full abdominoplasty) performed by a single surgeon (A.M.) from January of 2004 until October of 2012. Nonsurgical primary cases, secondary surgery that was revisional in nature, and massive weight loss patients were excluded.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients (13.0 percent) underwent secondary abdominal contouring procedures. Forty-six of 73 patients had charts available to be examined in greater detail. Thirty-four of these patients underwent secondary liposuction, whereas 12 of these patients had secondary full abdominoplasty procedures. Secondary operations occurred an average of 4.98 years after the primary procedure (range, 6 months to 15 years). Patients underwent secondary liposuction (n = 34) on average 3.16 years after their initial procedure, significantly sooner than patients who underwent secondary abdominoplasty (n = 12) 8.35 years after their initial procedure (p = 0.002). Patients with a body mass index less than 25 kg/m2 (n = 26) had both secondary liposuction (n = 16) and secondary abdominoplasty (n = 10), whereas all patients who had a body mass index of 25 kg/m2 or greater (n = 20) underwent only secondary liposuction.

CONCLUSIONS

True secondary abdominal contouring procedures represented 13.0 percent of all abdominal contouring procedures. The most common indication for a secondary procedure was an umbilical-site closure scar. Specific recommendations for surgical management of five common scenarios for secondary abdominal procedures are discussed.

The effectiveness and safety of combining laser-assisted liposuction and abdominoplasty

BACKGROUND

Lipoabdominoplasty is nearly a daily aesthetic procedure. Despite the emergence of laser-assisted liposuction, to date, it has not been clearly evaluated combined with abdominoplasty. This prospective study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of laser-assisted liposuction relative to traditional liposuction combined with high-lateral-tension abdominoplasty.

METHODS

This study investigated 36 consecutive female patients who underwent high-lateral-tension abdominoplasty combined with liposuction of the upper central abdomen and both flanks. The patients were divided into three equal groups based on the technique used for liposuction. Group 1 underwent conventional liposuction with abdominoplasty. Group 2 underwent a mixture of conventional and laser-assisted liposuction with abdominoplasty. Group 3 underwent laser-assisted liposuction with abdominoplasty.

RESULTS

The patients in groups 2 and 3 had a better aesthetic outcome than those in group 1 with regard to abdominal contour and skin tightness. No major complications were observed in groups 1 and 2. The patients in group 3 had a higher incidence of complications (3 seromas, 3 central necroses and dehiscence), and one patient underwent secondary sutures.

CONCLUSION

Laser-assisted liposuction combined with abdominoplasty in the lateral abdomen seems to be a safe technique with good aesthetic outcomes. Although the combined use of laser-assisted liposuction in the lateral and central abdomen can achieve relatively better aesthetic results, it is associated with significant complications, and its use cannot be supported. Proper laser parameters in the central abdominal area still need further study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Fibrin sealant and lipoabdominoplasty in obese grade 1 and 2 patients

BACKGROUND

Ever since lipoabdominoplasty was first developed to achieve better aesthetic outcomes and less morbidity, the rate of seroma formation, especially in obese patients, has disturbed plastic surgeons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of fibrin sealant in the prevention of seroma formation after lipoabdominoplasty in obese patients.

METHODS

Sixty patients with a body mass index (BMI) between 30 and 39.9 were assigned randomly to 1 of 2 groups (30 patients each). Group A underwent lipoabdominoplasty with fibrin glue, while group B underwent traditional lipoabdominoplasty; both had closed suction drainage applied to the abdomen. The patients' demographics and postoperative complications were recorded. Seroma was detected using abdominal ultrasound examinations at two postoperative periods: between postoperative days 10 and 12 and, between postoperative days 18 and 21.

RESULTS

The age range was 31 to 55 years (38.5±9.5 years) in group A and 25 to 58 years (37.8±9.1 years) in group B, while the mean BMI was 31.4 to 39.9 kg/m(2) (32.6 kg/m(2)) in group A and 32.7 to 37.4 kg/m(2) (31.5 kg/m(2)) in group B. In group A, the patients had a complication rate of 10% in group A versus 43% in group B (P<0.05). The incidence of seroma formation was 3% in the fibrin glue group but 37% in the lipoabdominoplasty-alone group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Lipoabdominoplasty with the use of autologous fibrin sealant is a very effective method that significantly reduces the rate of postoperative seroma.

Scarpa fascia preservation during abdominoplasty: randomized clinical study of efficacy and safety

BACKGROUND

Scarpa fascia preservation has been suggested as a way of reducing complications associated with conventional abdominoplasty. A prospective randomized study was conducted to evaluate the effect on results and complications of preserving the Scarpa fascia during a full abdominoplasty.

METHODS

This was a single-center study conducted from August of 2009 to February of 2011. Patients were assigned randomly to one of two procedures: classic full abdominoplasty (group A) or a similar type of abdominoplasty except for the preservation of the Scarpa fascia and the deep fat compartment in the infraumbilical area (group B). Four surgeons were involved in the study. Several variables were determined: general characteristics, time to suction drain removal, total volume of drain output, length of hospital stay, systemic complications, local complications, and aesthetic result.

RESULTS

A total of 160 full abdominoplasties were performed in women (group A, 80 patients; group B, 80 patients) equally divided by the four involved surgeons. There were no statistically significant differences between groups with respect to general characteristics, complications (except for the seroma rate), and aesthetic result. The Scarpa fascia preservation group had a highly significant reduction of 65.5 percent on the total drain output, 3 days on the time to drain removal, and 86.7 percent on the seroma rate.

CONCLUSION

Preservation of the Scarpa fascia during an abdominoplasty had a beneficial effect on patient recovery, as it reduced the total drain output, time to drain removal, and seroma rate without compromising the aesthetic result.

Retrospective Analysis of Type II Psillakis-like Mini-Abdominoplasties in a Single Cosmetic Surgery Practice: A Pilot Study

Introduction:

Mini-abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure available to patients with mild skin laxity and no underlying structural deficits including hernias or diastasis recti. This procedure can be performed safely with local anesthesia and minimal recovery time.

Materials and Methods:

All patients at a single private practice undergoing mini-abdominoplasties between 2005 and 2009 were identified. All procedures were performed using intravenous sedation, tumescent anesthesia, limited undermining, and without rectus plication or umbilical stalk resection. Identified patients were asked to complete a postprocedure questionnaire regarding postoperative complications and patient satisfaction.

Results:

Eight patients underwent mini-abdominoplasties, 7 of whom had concomitant liposuction. All patients were contacted and completed the questionnaire. No major postoperative complications were reported. Patient-reported pain, bruising, and edema following the procedure were mild in nature. Patient-evaluated overall improvement in the appearance of their abdomen was 78.13%.

Conclusions:

Type II Psillakis-like mini-abdominoplasty performed with tumescent anesthesia and intravenous sedation offers a safe and effective management of redundant abdominal skin tissue with high patient-reported improvement.

Extended abdominoplasty: applications and a new classification system for abdominoplasty

BACKGROUND

Aesthetic deformities of the abdomen requiring skin resection are usually treated with procedures limited to the abdomen and in some cases with circumferential abdominoplasty. There are some patients who require an intermediate procedure between abdominoplasty and circumferential abdominoplasty; these patients have been neglected in the plastic surgery literature.

METHODS

The medical records of 268 patients who underwent aesthetic procedures of the abdomen between January 2008 and July 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who had abdominal laxity extending into the flanks and who underwent extended abdominoplasty with liposuction of the back were evaluated. The surgical technique is described and its applications are reviewed.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients underwent extended abdominoplasty. All patients were extremely satisfied with the results. Only minor complications occurred. Two patients had marginal skin necrosis and one patient had a wound site infection but all of them had satisfactory resolution of their complications.

CONCLUSION

Extended abdominoplasty is a safe procedure with highly satisfactory results that should become common practice in plastic surgery. There is a group of patients who are best served by this procedure and a new classification system of the abdominal contour deformities that includes these patients is needed and is proposed by the authors.