title: An improved dual approach to post bariatric contouring - Staged liposuction and modified medial thigh lift: A case series.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Following massive weight loss (MWL) medial contouring of the thigh is frequently requested to improve appearance and function. Thigh lifting can be associated with significant complications. We present a case series of post bariatric patients undergoing thigh lift using staged the liposuction, a modified T incision and a buried de-epithelialised dermal flap.
  
  
  METHODS
  From January to December 2012, 21 consecutive patients underwent a modified medial thigh lift. A retrospective review of the case notes was performed to assess complications that occurred.
  
  
  RESULTS
  There were no major post-operative complications in terms of reoperation, hematoma, thromboembolism and no seromas. Seven patients, all of which were smokers had minor superficial wound healing complications. Aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory for all patients at a minimum follow-up of 6 months.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The modified 'T' incision with staged liposuction is described. We have found the technique to be useful for a variety of different thighs. It is a reproducible method for contouring the medial thigh in MWL patients. In this series, our overall complications were low, and no seromas occurred.
authors.affiliation: Department for Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hamburg, Germany.
authors.forename: Zaher
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Jandali
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic Surgery, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, Scotland.
authors.forename: Charles Yuen Yung
authors.initials: CY
authors.lastname: Loh
authors.affiliation: Department for Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hamburg, Germany.
authors.forename: Thanassi
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Athanassopoulos
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic Surgery, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, Scotland.
authors.forename: Klaus
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Müller
keywords: Combined liposuction; buried dermal flap; modified; thigh lift