Anterior periosteal dermal suspension with suction curettage for lateral thigh lipectomy.

The standard excisional approach to lipectomy has now been expanded by the use of suction curettage either as an adjunct or a primary procedure. In severe cases of steatomeria (a term used to designate trochanteric obesity and eliminate the misuse of the term lipodystrophy), curettage serves to prepare and shape the flaps, while excision and "periosteal dermal suspension" are sometimes necessary to achieve adequate contour and lift. Periosteal anchoring ensures adequate permanent suspension and a tension-free closure. Achievement of lateral thigh contouring by an anterior approach is facilitated by the use of the suction curette. Undermining of the superior flap and contouring with suction, as well as overlapping the closure with buried dermal-fat suspension flaps, eliminates bulging above or below the incision. Periosteal dermal suspension decreases the possibility of scar widening and eventual ptosis, provides a fixation technique that permits more lift, and eliminates scarring from the lateral thigh. Lateral thigh suction lipectomy with periosteal dermal suspension has been done alone or in conjunction with buttock reduction or with medial thigh or abdominal lipectomy in 14 patients. The operating time was short, and the results were good with minimal morbidity.