PubMed1999
Plastic surgery of the abdomen remains difficult and is therefore associated with a number of complications of varying severity, but whose global incidence appears to justify a separate chapter. The most serious complications of abdominoplasty are thromboembolic complications, which may be life-threatening. The incidence of these complications must be minimized by rigorous preventive measures. Prevention is based on early mobilization of the patient, perioperative treatment with low molecular weight heparin and wearing of anti-thrombosis stockings. Skin necrosis is generally associated with one or several aetiological factors: excessive tension at the end of the operation, development of a haematoma, excessive or too superficial detachment. The so-called "Morel-Lavallée" fluid collection is best prevented by well performed postoperative compression applied continuously for three weeks after the operation. Complications of isolated abdominal liposuction are exceptional, or at least they should be, when the indication and technique are rigorously respected. The combination of liposuction and abdominoplasty does not add any complication not already described in the case of abdominoplasties and does not increase the incidence of these complications. Liposuction appears to decrease the number of abdominoplasties, but also their extent, which is beneficial in terms of the quality and safety of the postoperative course. A better definition of indications and improvement of techniques have therefore markedly decreased the severity and incidence of complications of plastic surgery of the abdomen. Truly effective preventive measures are available for each of these complications.