Avulsion Thighplasty: Technique Overview and 6-Year Experience.

UNLABELLED: When choosing a thigh lift operation, the surgeon also chooses which complications he/she will be managing, and the most dreaded after conventional thigh lifting are those of lymphatic origin such as lymphocele or lymphedema. The authors describe avulsion thighplasty, a technique that spares lymphatics by using aggressive liposuction beneath the planned resection area, and thus minimizes lymphatic complications. The technique is outlined and complications are detailed over a 6-year period with long-term follow-up. The risk of major complications is found to be low and the procedure is found to be safe. Patients must be counseled that the risk of minor complications, such as small wound dehiscence or need for a later scar revision, is substantial.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.