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.
Keywords
Lipectomy - Abdominoplasty - Abdominal wound closure techniques
