Lipoabdominoplasty.

[BACKGROUND] Abdominoplasty is one of the most common aesthetic operations. Wide bibliographic research has revealed that there is a safe method whereby two techniques--liposuction and abdominoplasty--can be associated in the same procedure. The authors present a new abdominoplasty technique combining a selective undermining with complete abdominal liposuction.

[METHODS] The authors standardized steps with which to perform a safe association of traditional abdominoplasty with liposuction of the entire abdomen and infracostal areas. Using selective undermining, it is possible to preserve at least 80 percent of the blood supply in the abdominal wall, causing little nervous trauma, preserving the great majority of the lymphatic vessels, and resulting in few complications compared with traditional abdominoplasty, including post-bariatric surgery procedures. In this study, lipoabdominoplasty was performed on 445 patients: eight male patients and 437 female patients, from 2000 to 2007.

[RESULTS] The authors consider the results good and excellent, especially regarding patient evaluation, better body contour, abdominal rejuvenation, shorter scars, the form of the umbilicus, and a decrease in the abdominal measures.

[CONCLUSION] With a progressive adaptation of this technique, it is possible to achieve a harmonious body contour using a safe liposuction method on the abdominal and costal areas, with fast recovery and good to excellent results.