Surgical Correction of Abdomen Irregularities after Liposuction: Case Series

Abstract

Background: The occurrence of surface irregularities in the abdomen after liposuction is frequent and can be due to the fact that more liposuctions are being done nowadays, and perhaps, the fact that more noncore surgeons are doing it could be an important factor. These superficial changes compromise the aesthetic results of surgery, and their correction is a major technical challenge. Methods: The author presents a systematized approach for surgical treatment of fibrosis and post liposuction irregularities. Twenty-three patients underwent liposuction and abdominoplasty or mini abdominoplasty by a single surgeon (G.B.B.) over a period of 24 months to correct superficial abdominal wall irregularities after previous liposuction. All patients underwent evaluation through digital photography by two independent senior plastic surgeons according to an objective aesthetic outcome scale, 12 months after the operation. Results: All 23 patients showed an improvement in the appearance of the abdominal wall according to the aesthetic outcome scale used. Eighty-seven percent of the patients operated on in this series had previously undergone liposuction using technologies and 4.3% underwent liposuction alone. The overall minor complication rate was 26%. No major complications were noted. Conclusions: The combination of liposuction, direct fibrosis removal, and flap tensioning (abdominoplasty or mini abdominoplasty) could correct in this series the multiple factors (fibrosis, skin laxity, residual fat deposits post liposuction) related to abdominal wall surface irregularities in a safe, effective, and reproducible manner.