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Research Article| Volume 65, ISSUE 4, P433-437, April 2012

Circumferential superficial fascia lift of the lower trunk: Surgical technique and retrospective review of 50 cases

Published:November 07, 2011DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2011.09.045

      Summary

      Background

      The superficial fascia of the lower trunk has been described in its functional importance as a lifting layer by Lockwood in the early 1990s. Preparation more superficially is supposed to reduce the rate of seroma formation in abdominoplasty procedures. Using the superficial fascia in circumferential bodycontouring procedures of the lower trunk is assumed to combine these benefits.

      Methods

      Between November 2008 and April 2010, 50 patients were scheduled for circumferential superficial fascia lifting of the lower trunk at our department. Nine men and 41 women underwent a central or lower bodylifting procedure. The ultrasonically activated scalpel was used for preparation.

      Results

      Only one major complication (secondary bleeding) needing revision occurred. There were few minor complications such as seroma formation (8%) and superficial wound dehiscences <2 cm in extension (16%). No other complications occurred.

      Conclusion

      The superficial fascia is an ideal layer for preparation and tissue lifting in circumferential bodycontouring of the lower trunk.

      Keywords

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      Linked Article

      • Invited commentary
        Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic SurgeryVol. 65Issue 4
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          with great interest we have read the case series “Circumferential Superficial- Fascia- Lift of the Lower Trunk: Surgical technique and retrospective review of 50 cases.” by Koller and Hintringer.1 The authors describe their experience in 50 cases with a circumferential superficial-fascia-lift of the lower trunk and report a very low rate of complications in general, especially seroma formation and hematoma and bleeding. They attribute their rate to a superficial fat plane dissection, which they assume to be beneficial due to lower lymphatic vessel harvest compared to deep plane preparation, as well as to the use of an ultrasonically activated scalpel.
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