<< Back to the abstract archive
Medial Thighplasty in the Massive Weight Loss Population: Risk Factors and Complications
Harry S. Nayar, BA; Russell E. Kling, BA; Evan B. Katzel, MD; Devin Coon, MD; J. Peter Rubin, MD; Jeffrey A. Gusenoff, MD
Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh
2013-02-28
Presenter: Russell E Kling
Affidavit:
I certify that the material proposed for presentation in this abstract has not been published in any scientific journal or previously presented at a major meeting. The work here represents the original work of the above mentioned presenter.
Director Name: Dr. Joseph E Losee, MD
Author Category: Medical Student
Presentation Category: Clinical
Abstract Category: Aesthetics
Introduction: Despite the increasing popularity of the medial thighplasty for management of inner thigh skin redundancy in the massive weight loss population, there is little objective data regarding this procedure. We sought to describe thighplasty outcomes and safety at our institution.
Methods: A retrospective review was performed over a 9-year period. Complications assessed included seroma, wound dehiscence, infection, hematoma, lymphedema, and VTE. Co-morbidities and re-operation were also assessed.
Results: Fifty-two subjects (41 females and 11 males) underwent thighplasty with a mean age of 42.8±10.6 years, a mean maxBMI of 53.9±14.7kg/m2, a mean currentBMI of 29.8kg/m2±5.5kg/m2 and a mean deltaBMI of 24.3±10.8kg/m2. Twenty-seven (52%) underwent full-length vertical thighplasty, nineteen (36%) underwent short scar incision thighplasty, and two (4%) underwent horizontal incision only. The overall complication rate was 71% (n=37). The wound dehiscence rate was 62%, seroma 23%, infection 15%, and prolonged edema 10%. Three subjects developed lymphedema requiring specialized care. Two patients required re-operation for a seroma and for a sinus tract. One patient developed a DVT. Six subjects (12%) underwent revision to optimize aesthetic results. There were no statistically significant correlations with co-morbidities (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Thighplasty is a challenging procedure with a high rate of complications; most are minor and can be managed conservatively. This information can aid in managing expectations in patients seeking medial thighplasty.
