Abdominoplasty combined with suction lipoplasty: a study of complications, revisions, and risk factors in 487 cases

Abstract

The records of 487 patients undergoing abdominoplasty combined with closed liposuction of flap and flanks were reviewed regarding complications, revisions, and certain risk factors related to flap necrosis. Six patients developed general nonfatal complications including 1 deep phlebitis and 1 pulmonary embolism. Thirty-nine local complications occurred including 24 cases of flap necrosis, 4 hematomas, 2 dehiscences, 1 abdominal perforation, 1 infection, and 5 cases of seroma. Wide undermining and the "opposite T" incision emerged as significant risk factors related to flap necrosis. Neither the suction procedure nor obesity nor age had significant influence on the slough incidence. Although the present study does not include controls, liposuction does not appear to represent any significant additional risk when performed in connection with abdominoplasty.