Applications and Limitations of Suction Assisted Transverse Medial Thigh Lift

Abstract

Aims and objectives: Skin laxity or excess can be a part of ageing process and weight loss. Skin laxity or excess is commonly experienced following weight loss around arms, thighs, face and neck, breast and abdomen. Various methods and techniques are described to address these excess skin issues. Liposuction assisted abdominoplasty has been described by Saldanha along with Colour Doppler studies of the superior and inferior epigastric arteries. Similarly DJ Hurwitz has described liposuction assisted brachioplasty. The process allows honeycombing of the subcutaneous tissue when suction lipectomy is performed using blunt tipped cannulas. Process allows creation of a safe plane superior to the deep fascial layer with preservation of the important nerves and vessels. Skin excess is removed without the need of sharp dissection or risks to the underlying structures. Postoperative bleeding and bruising is minimal and most of the instances the procedure is performed as a day case without drains. Patient postoperative analgesia requirements are minimal and allows patient to ambulate early with a quick recovery. Methods: Between 2009 and 2018, 153 suction assisted procedure were performed on various parts of the body. Of the 153 procedures 22 patients had thigh lifts as an outpatient. Results: There was no skin loss, DVT, PE or motor nerve damage. All patients retained sensation of the distal limbs.