A Unique Method of Body Lifting after Massive Weight Loss

Abstract

Introduction: The epidemic of obesity has provided a new cosmetic challenge in postbariatric body reconstruction. Traditionally, body lift procedures and circumferential liposuction have been used to address the excess skin and adiposity present after weight loss. After applying alveolar abdominoplasty principles to circumferential body lifts, we describe our experience of the first 24 lipo-circumferential body lift procedures performed as single-stage outpatient surgery. Materials and Methods: Between October 2007 and August 2009, 24 patients underwent a total body lift using our lipo-circumferential body lift technique. The operative technique is described. Intraoperative and postoperative complications are compared with published series. Results: All procedures were performed as a single-stage outpatient procedure. The last 20 patients did not receive postoperative drains. Seven patients underwent additional procedures performed in the same setting. No intraoperative or major postoperative complications occurred. Five patients (20.8%) had posterior wound dehiscence (<2 cm). Five patients (20.8%) had anterior wound dehiscence (<2 cm). Two patients (8.3%) had minor wound infection. Two patients (8.3%) had cellulitis. One patient (4.2%) had umbilical necrosis. An overall minor complication rate of 58% was reported. Conclusions: Our technique of lipo-circumferential body lift is a safe and effective procedure to address the body contouring after massive weight loss in a single stage, outpatient procedure.