Full abdominoplasty with circumferential lipoplasty.

Abstract

The advent of lipoplasty has led plastic surgeons to significantly modify the techniques used in performance of abdominoplasty. Such changes have achieved marked improvement in aesthetic results. The authors report their experience in performing combination abdominoplasty and lipoplasty, with particular emphasis on means of reducing complications and obtaining the best results. Between May 2004 and November 2006, 122 women underwent abdominoplasty and circumferential lipoplasty combined in a single surgical procedure. Undermining was performed up to the xiphoid process but was limited to the central abdominal area of the flap. Circumferential lipoplasty included treatment of the back and flanks, as well as the abdominal flap Between 3100 and 13,200 mL (average, 5800 mL) were obtained through lipoplasty. The abdominoplasty flap weight fluctuated between 650 and 4200 g (average 1050 g). The amount of material obtained through lipoplasty of the central abdominal area corresponded to the abdominoplasty flap weight, fluctuating between 800 and 3600 mL (average, 1700 mL). No major complications (necrosis, damage to the flap, hematoma, postsurgical infection) occurred in our series. Combination abdominoplasty and circumferential lipoplasty, including lipoplasty of the flap, can be performed safely, with pleasing results and minimal complications.