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Lipo Abdominoplasty for Body Sculpting
ASK THE EXPERT Lipo Abdominoplasty for Body Sculpting
BY CHARLES A. MESSA, III, M.D., F.A.C.S.
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Lipo abdominoplasty is an advanced technique bringing significant change to the traditional tummy tuck. The procedure involves a combination of traditional liposuction with an open skin and fat removal procedure, typically referred to as a tummy tuck. The combination of the two procedures enables the plastic surgeon to better contour and shape the abdomen and the adjacent areas more completely. Patients who have experienced increased skin laxity and excess fat deposition in the abdomen, hips, and waist can now transform their bodies into a more beautiful shape.
This procedure is ideal for patients who have excess skin and fat with abdominal weakness, commonly seen after childbirth, weight loss, and with the alterations that are seen with the aging process. Lipoabdominoplasty safely combines suction-assisted lipectomy (liposuction) with abdominal muscle tightening and skin removal. The fat which is removed via lipoaspiration can be added to other areas of contour deficiency like the buttocks through fat grafting or transfer. This combination reshapes the entire midsection and buttock giving the individual the shapely body contour they desire. The technique should be used with caution in patients who have a history of smoking or previous abdominal surgery and should be performed only by experienced surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
There are a number of important variables that determine whether a patient is a candidate for a lipoabdominoplasty. For any plastic surgical procedure to be a complete success, medical and psychological fitness for surgery is a prerequisite. The appropriate patient typically is close to their ideal body weight with anatomic features that may be improved surgically, including loose skin, excess fat, and weakened abdominal muscles. The distribution of fat is one determinant of the improvement a patient will have from a tummy tuck. Fat in the superficial tissue is the type that is possible to pinch. This superficial fat may be removed through excision (tummy tuck) or aspiration (liposuction). If skin laxity or looseness is significant, the skin and fat should be removed with a tummy tuck. If the skin elasticity is adequate; however, the superficial fat may be removed through liposuction alone. Liposuction may flatten the abdomen, but it will not tighten the skin significantly. Patients who have soft, distended abdomens frequently have lax muscles or a separation of rectus muscle in the midline known as diastasis. This is common after multiple pregnancies making it a great procedure for ‘Mommy Makeovers’ or significant weight loss patients.
When patients have excess skin that extends to the lateral hips and lower back or buttocks, an extended or circumferential abdominoplasty may be necessary. For most patients the resultant incision is well hidden within underwear and bathing suit lines. The procedure usually takes 2 – 3 hours. Patients should prepare to rest for a minimum of one to two weeks after their procedure. n Dr. Messa is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, an active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is a recognized expert in cosmetic plastic surgery and has achieved Allergan’s Black Diamond Award as one of the top 1% of plastic surgery practices in the country by volume. Dr. Messa has also achieved Chairman status with Medicis and Mentor Corporation. This award honors distinguished leaders in cosmetic surgery for demonstrating expertise and excellence through a high volume of aesthetic product procedures. The certification is awarded to leaders in the field of medical aesthetics and demonstrates their commitment to innovation, excellence, and the highest level of patient care.
To schedule your consultation with Dr. Messa, please call our office at (954) 659-7760.
Cosmetic Surgery Of The Face, Body & Breast CHARLES A. MESSA, III, M.D., F.A.C.S. DOUBLE BOARD CERTIFIED The American Board of Plastic Surgery and The American Board of Surgery
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