Abstract
Deformities in the body contouring population are rarely isolated to one area, and procedures can be combined to achieve more substantial results. While there is no formula for optimal surgical sequencing and timing, there are certain principles which - when applied appropriately - can yield results that are reliable, aesthetically pleasing, and aligned with the patient’s desires and preferences. In this article, we outline our latest thinking in circumferential body contouring and how to integrate the lower body lift with procedures of the abdomen, upper body, breasts, back, and arms to achieve the complete 360° look.
Highlights
The relatively recent emergence of body contouring as a distinct subspecialty of plastic surgery is rooted in earlier endeavors to restore form and function through the excision of redundant adipocutaneous tissue[1]
Contour surgeons were suddenly faced with the diverse and unpredictable range of deformities seen in the massive weight loss (MWL) population
In the nearly two decades since its original publication, we have demonstrated utility in patient counseling but as a tool for analyzing our own outcomes and further characterizing deformities of the breasts[5], outer thighs[6], and abdomen[7]
Summary
The relatively recent emergence of body contouring as a distinct subspecialty of plastic surgery is rooted in earlier endeavors to restore form and function through the excision of redundant adipocutaneous tissue[1]. Managing patient expectations is critical in this patient population They need to have a solid understanding of the areas being operated on, potential scar location, potential areas of residual deformity after surgery, and all the complications of body contouring, including bleeding, infection, scar, delayed healing, injury to, malposition, or loss of the umbilicus or nipple-areola complex, seroma, need for future surgery, and risks of anesthesia including blood clots to the legs or lungs or death. We ask the patients to prioritize the anatomical regions of the highest concern Based on their desires and preferences, we discuss the various safe surgical options, scar placement, recovery times, and the availability of social networks. Stigmata of MWL include deflation of the buttock with loss of volume and projection, as well as descent of the lateral thighs, resulting in prominent saddlebags
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