[Reverse abdominoplasty in the presence of bi-subcostal scar: Technical note].

INTRODUCTION

The presence of horizontal supraumbilical scars increases the risk of vascular complications after a large abdominoplasty. We present here a technique of abdominal dermolipectomy with umbilical transposition called « reverse », in the presence of a bi-subcostal scar.

TECHNICAL NOTE

The reverse abdominoplasty technique consists in uninserting the umbilicus, detaching the supra-umbilical and sub-umbilical soft tissues by assessing the existing bi-subcostal scar in order to pull the skin upwards, and to remove the supra-umbilical excess skin, before bringing the umbilicus back to its proper position.

DISCUSSION

This technique is a good alternative to perform an abdominal dermolipectomy in a patient with a history of bi-subcostal scarring without increasing the risk of abdominal skin necrosis, and without complicating or lengthening the conventional surgical procedure, provided that the upper redraping is achievable with sufficient upper excess skin and laxity.