Drainless Abdominoplasty Using Progressive Tension Sutures

Abstract

Drain-free abdominoplasty using progressive tension sutures (PTS) was initially described in 2000 in a small retrospective series. However, the authors' experience with this technique spans well over 3 decades, and their technique has evolved to simplify the procedure to make it easier and more reproducible by the surgeon and improve the patient's recovery and overall experience. This article provides in-depth technical details on the authors' no-drain abdominoplasty technique. The authors also address through recent literature some of the commonly stated barriers to surgeons instituting this technique into their abdominoplasty procedure, including excessive time of placement, dimpling, and effectiveness.

Keywords: Abdominoplasty; Drain-free abdominoplasty; Quilting sutures; Tummy tuck.