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Keynote incl. Free Communication

Postbariatric body contouring

- , Deck 6

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Postbariatric body contouring

84
Categories
Keynote incl. Free Communication

Postbariatric body contouring

- , Deck 6
  1. Beyond the Scale: Restoring Form, Function and Identity after Massive Weight Loss

    Presentation time:
    15 min

    Speaker: Adrian Dragu

  2. Postoperative Outcomes Following Body Contouring Surgery in Patients Treated With GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

    Presentation time:
    6 min

    Abstract Presenter: N. Djebbara-Bozo

    Objective

    Obesity prevalence is rising globally, with increasing use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). for weight loss. While massive weight loss improves obesity-related comorbidities, it frequently results in excess skin and soft tissue changes necessitating body contouring surgery for therapeutic rather than purely aesthetic reasons.
    GLP-1 RAs induce weight loss through appetite suppression and delayed gastric emptying, mechanisms that may affect nutritional intake, metabolic balance, and perioperative risk. Although anesthesiology guidelines address perioperative management of GLP-1 RAs, evidence regarding their impact on postoperative outcomes in body contouring surgery remains limited, and data on postoperative complications in this patient population are sparse. This study evaluated the association between preoperative GLP-1 RA use and postoperative outcomes following body contouring surgery after weight loss.

    Methods

    This single-center retrospective cohort study included adult patients undergoing their first body contouring procedure after weight loss at Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark, between December 1, 2022, and December 1, 2024. Patients were categorized according to preoperative GLP-1 RA exposure. The primary outcome was any postoperative complication within 90 days. Secondary outcomes included minor and major complications. Multivariable generalized linear models were used to assess associations, adjusting for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), BMI point loss, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification, diabetes mellitus, procedure type, and surgery duration.

    Results

    Among 222 patients 44 (19.8%) received GLP-1 RA preoperatively. Postoperative complications were more frequent in the GLP-1 RA group than in non-exposed patients (77.3% vs. 53.9%, p = 0.0055). GLP-1 RA use remained strongly associated with postoperative complications in multivariable analysis (p = 0.008). Further analysis revealed associations for both minor (p = 0.045) and major complications (p = 0.008), with a stronger association for major complications.

    Conclusion

    Preoperative GLP-1 RA use is associated with an increased risk of postoperative complications following body contouring surgery after weight loss. Careful preoperative assessment and perioperative planning may be warranted

  3. GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Therapy and Postoperative Complications in Body Contouring Surgery: Benefit or Increased Risk? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

    Presentation time:
    6 min

    Abstract Presenter: L. Nocerino

    Objective

    Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1RAs) are increasingly prescribed for weight loss and body aesthetic optimization, driving more subsequent body contouring procedures. While the role of GLP-1RAs in inducing significant weight loss is well known, their impact on postoperative complication rates following body contouring surgery remains uncertain.

    Methods

    Retrospective observational studies published up to February 2026 were identified in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science, comparing postoperative complications in patients exposed to GLP-1RAs prior to body contouring surgery with matched controls undergoing identical procedures. The mean follow-up ranged from 1 to 12 months. Exposed patients were matched to unexposed controls using propensity score matching or adjusted with multivariable regression analysis. Heterogeneity was assessed with the I^2 statistic, and random-effects models were applied when substantial heterogeneity was detected.

    Results

    From an initial pool of 636 records, 6 retrospective studies (n = approximately 14,830 patients) met inclusion criteria, including 7,269 GLP-1RA users (approximately 49 percent). Across studies, no standardized protocol for preoperative GLP-1RA discontinuation was reported.
    The use of GLP-1RAs was associated with a significantly higher incidence of postoperative wound dehiscence (RR 1.44; 95% CI 1.11-1.86; p = 0.0054; figure 1A) and hypertrophic scarring (RR 1.52; 95% CI 1.25-1.84; p <= 0.0001; figure 1B) compared with the control group.
    The risk of postoperative surgical site infection (RR 1.34; 95% CI 0.96-1.87; p = 0.0892; figure 1C), seroma (RR 1.14; 95% CI 0.69-1.90; p = 0.6048) or hematoma (RR 1.31; 95% CI 0.78-2.22; p = 0.3112) showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups.

    Conclusion

    Emerging evidence suggests GLP-1RAs may modestly increase specific postoperative wound complications following body contouring surgery. Clinicians should consider balancing weight-loss benefits with perioperative risk and perioperative GLP-1RA management strategies. Further definitive prospective data are needed to optimize patient selection and surgical planning as well as investigation into technologies for managing patients and their possible complications.

  4. Liposuction: immunological considerations behind its surgical success as a technique in plastic surgery

    Presentation time:
    3 min

    Abstract Presenter: D. Asimakopoulos

    Objective

    The scope of this presentation is to illustrate the immunological mechanisms behind the function of liposuction and reconcile them with current surgical practice and results. More specifically, we explore the re-accumulation and redistribution of adipose tissue after liposuction, and the clinical significance of metabolic dysregulation in normal vs high BMI states in perceived surgical results, as well as physician-reported outcomes, patient-reported outcomes and patient satisfaction.

    Methods

    The number of adipose cells (hyperplasia) remains a major determinant of the absolute adipose mass in the adult, alongside the adipose cell volume (hypertrophy). The number of adipose cells is determined in childhood and adolescence, with this number remaining constant during adulthood, and their volume determining the absolute fat mass. This is because adipose progenitor stem cells, which are the primary source of adipose-producing cells in the stromal vascular fraction, lose their ability to proliferate with increasing age, with a marked loss of ability to do so once the individual reaches 30, through the activation of numerous immunological pathways, acting as drivers of senescence. This paper is a review of current literature on the immunological basis of the function and efficiency of liposuction in conjunction with clinical results at varying post-operative timings.

    Results

    MRI volumetric evaluation of fat reduction results at 6 weeks and 12 months post-liposuction, in individuals within the normal BMI range, shows statistically significant differences in fat volume in the 6-week follow-up compared to the control group, but not in the 12-month follow-up (lack of standardisation in timeframes of follow-up visits). Fat tissue regain is mostly in visceral adipose tissue, not superficial adipose tissue. Moreover, body composition remains approximately the same in the long-term.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, liposuction is a means of shaping the contour of the body, but not necessarily for weight loss. Despite patient satisfaction, the patient’s metabolic state, alongside the pro-inflammatory profile in the treated areas, may result in fat accumulation in VAT (bone marrow-mediated pro-adipogenic state), as opposed to SAT (pro-inflammatory and anti-adipogenic state), resulting in perceived weight stability or weight gain.

  5. Analysis of cutaneous sensitivity after abdominoplasty using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments

    Presentation time:
    3 min

    Abstract Presenter: S. Nickl

    Objective

    Significant weight loss due to various factors such as bariatric surgery, pregnancy, or dietary changes often results in excess skin, which may require surgical correction. In cases of skin laxity, abdominoplasty is the treatment of choice. However, a common postoperative complication is altered sensation in the abdominal area which could be an issue for patients.

    Methods

    A prospective exploratory study was conducted to assess the recovery of sensory function following abdominoplasty.
    Twenty patients with a mean age of 40.3 years (range: 18–65) and a mean body mass index of 24.15 kg/m^2 underwent abdominoplasty and were compared to 20 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals serving as a control group.
    Sensory assessment was performed using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months postoperatively. The abdominal wall was divided into 12 specific regions, and each region was tested three times using monofilaments with consistent pressure. Statistical analysis was conducted using paired t-tests with Bonferroni correction to compare mean values between the groups.

    Results

    At the 3- and 6-month follow-ups, 11 out of 12 abdominal regions showed statistically significant differences in sensitivity compared to healthy controls. At 9 and 12 months postoperatively, 6 out of 12 and 4 out of 12 regions, respectively, continued to show statistically significant differences in sensitivity.

    Conclusion

    Findings suggest that sensory recovery begins between 6 and 9 months after surgery. However, regions 1–3 (located below the incision line) as well as region 5 (infraumbilical) continue to exhibit significantly reduced sensitivity one year postoperatively.
    These results indicate that patients undergoing abdominoplasty are at increased risk of long-term sensory loss in specific areas of the abdominal wall.

  6. Tongue in groove Labia minora reduction

    Presentation time:
    6 min

    Abstract Presenter: S. Santner-Graul

    Objective

    Reduction of labia minora has become an increasingly common procedure in aesthetic and functional genital surgery. Numerous surgical techniques have been described in the literature. Continuous refinements in operative approaches have led to improved aesthetic outcomes and reduced complication rates.

    Methods

    Since 2024, we have further developed our technique based on contoured excision combined with superior pedicle flap reconstruction. We designed a novel modification incorporating partial deepithelialization and deep fixation of the flap.
    The deepithelialized portion of the flap is inserted into the base of the labia minora using a “tongue-in-groove” principle, enabling stable fixation and reliable fusion to achieve a well-defined and durable labial contour.
    A total of 44 labia minora reductions were included in this study. Outcomes were assessed using a 5-point Likert scale to evaluate patient satisfaction, and postoperative complications were recorded.

    Results

    Between January 2024 and December 2025, 44 labia minora reductions were performed using the described tongue-in-groove technique. The procedure resulted in high patient satisfaction (mean score: 4.7/5) and a low incidence of complications (Clavien-Dindo classification Grade II 13% in 2024 and 0% in 2025). Two revision procedures were performed to correct minor persisting asymmetry.

    Conclusion

    This case series presents a novel modification for labia minora reduction that achieves high aesthetic quality and excellent patient satisfaction. The addition of flap deepithelialization allows for stable reconstruction of the labia minora and is associated with low complication rates.

  7. Functional and aesthetic outcomes of liposuction with adjunctive tightening procedures in lipedema: a descriptive systematic review

    Presentation time:
    6 min

    Abstract Presenter: O. Rafi

    Objective

    Lipedema is a chronic adipose tissue disorder associated with pain, edema, and functional limitation. Liposuction is seen as the primary treatment, while adjunctive tightening procedures—surgical and minimally invasive—are used to improve residual tissue laxity and contour. However, evidence integrating functional and aesthetic outcomes, as well as safety profiles of combined approaches, remains fragmented. This review aims to synthesize current data and define clinically relevant outcome domains.

    Methods

    A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA principles. PubMed/Embase were searched (2010–2025) reporting outcomes following liposuction with or without adjunctive tightening procedures in patients with lipedema. Eligible studies included ≥5 patients and reported functional and/or aesthetic outcomes. Two-stage screening (title/abstract and full text) was performed. Data extraction covered pain, edema, quality of life, patient- and surgeon-reported aesthetic outcomes, limb volume or circumference, reinterventions, and complications. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using established criteria, and a descriptive synthesis was performed due to heterogeneity in design and outcomes.

    Results

    A total of >= 50 studies comprising >= 1000 patients met inclusion criteria, with follow-up ranging from 3 to 24 months. Across studies, liposuction was associated with consistent improvement in pain and quality-of-life, alongside measurable decreases in limb volume and high patient-reported satisfaction. Evidence regarding adjunctive tightening procedures was limited and heterogeneous; available data suggest a potential benefit in contour refinement and aesthetic satisfaction in selected cases. Reported complication rates were low, most commonly transient edema or seroma, and reinterventions were infrequent, varying with disease stage and treatment extent.

    Conclusion

    Current evidence supports liposuction as an effective intervention for improving both functional and aesthetic outcomes in lipedema. Adjunctive tightening procedures may provide additional contouring benefit in selected patients, although supporting data remain limited and inconsistent. The marked variability in techniques, outcome measures, and follow-up highlights the need for standardized and prospective studies to better define the role of combined treatment strategies.

  8. Gluteal augmentation with silicone implants: our experience and surgical technique

    Presentation time:
    6 min

    Abstract Presenter: R. M. Fakin

    Objective

    To present a surgical technique and evaluate long-term post-operative results after a gluteal augmentation with silicone implants.

    Methods

    Over 35 patients between 2022 and 2025 have undergone a gluteoplasty, all performed by a single surgeon (author). The surgical technique consists of a placement of silicone implants in submuscular plane via a mini-incision. The post-operative evaluation took place at 6 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months with a minim follow-up of 12 months.

    Results

    The medium follow up is 14 months. We observed an unilateral infection in one patient which required a subsequent explantation. Apart, no wound dehiscence, relevant hematoma, or dislocation of implants were observed. All patients reported a high satisfaction rate in regards to outcomes. No case of capsular contracture was noted.

    Conclusion

    We present an effective and safe surgical single-stage technique for gluteal augmentation with silicon implants.

  9. Fibrin Sealant and Abdominoplasty: An Ally Against Complications?

    Presentation time:
    3 min

    Abstract Presenter: G. Van Doornick

    Objective

    Abdominoplasty is a common aesthetic and reconstructive procedure frequently complicated by postoperative seroma formation, with reported incidences between 5% and 30%. While strategies like closed-suction drainage and quilting sutures are standard, fibrin sealants have emerged as a biological alternative to reduce dead space. This study aimed to evaluate whether the application of ARTISS® (a low-thrombin fibrin sealant) reduces the incidence of seroma and other postoperative complications following abdominoplasty.

    Methods

    A retrospective, single-center study was conducted on 40 patients undergoing primary abdominoplasty between August 2022 and June 2025. Patients were divided into two groups: the ARTISS group (n = 21), receiving 4 mL of sprayed fibrin sealant prior to flap redraping, and the control group (n = 19), receiving standard surgery without sealant. Neither group received quilting sutures and all procedures were performed by a single surgeon using a standardized technique. Statistical comparisons were performed using appropriate parametric or non-parametric tests, with significance set at p < 0.05.

    Results

    Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. Postoperative complications occurred in 14.3% of the ARTISS group versus 31.6% of the control group (p = 0.265). Notably, seroma formation was observed exclusively in the control group (10%, n = 4) compared to 0% in the ARTISS group (p = 0.042). There were no significant differences in hematoma, wound dehiscence, or infection rates. In a subgroup analysis of uncomplicated cases, the ARTISS group had a shorter mean drain duration (5.94 vs. 7.80 days), though this did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.161). Mean length of hospital stay remained similar between groups (2.14 vs. 2.21 days, p = 0.861).

    Conclusion

    The intraoperative application of ARTISS® fibrin sealant significantly reduced the incidence of postoperative seroma in this cohort. While it did not significantly alter the overall complication rate or hospital stay, the findings suggest ARTISS® is an effective adjunct for dead space management, particularly when mechanical fixation like quilting sutures is omitted. Larger prospective trials are needed to confirm these results and assess cost- effectiveness.

  10. Diagnostic Accuracy and Psychometric Performance of Body Dysmorphia Screening Tools in Aesthetic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

    Presentation time:
    3 min

    Abstract Presenter: W. A. Jamel

    Objective

    This review assesses the diagnostic accuracy, psychometric robustness, and clinical utility of existing BDD screening tools within the context of cosmetic surgery consultations.

    Methods

    A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, with the protocol registered on PROSPERO. Nineteen studies assessing BDD screening tools were included, all of which used validated instruments and psychiatric reference standards. Pooled sensitivity and specificity of the BDDQ-AS across culturally adapted versions were estimated using univariate random-effects meta-analysis. Meta-regressions examined the moderating influence of methodological quality, study region, gender proportion, and BDD prevalence. Risk of bias and measurement quality were assessed using COSMIN and QUADAS-2 tools.

    Results

    The BDDQ-AS demonstrated a pooled sensitivity of 78.0% and specificity of 77.1%, with no significant heterogeneity in sensitivity (I² = 0%) but moderate heterogeneity in specificity (I² = 67.9%). Meta-regression found no significant effect of study quality, region, gender distribution, or underlying prevalence on diagnostic performance. A comparative analysis revealed similar sensitivity and specificity between the BDDQ-AS and COPS tools. However, implementation metrics such as clinician usability, patient acceptability, and cost-effectiveness were largely absent across studies. Overall certainty of evidence was graded as “very low” due to methodological shortcomings and limited external validity.

    Conclusion

    The BDDQ-AS and COPS demonstrate moderate diagnostic accuracy for preoperative BDD screening in cosmetic settings, but widespread adoption is limited by inconsistent validation, lack of implementation research, and absence of patient-centered outcomes. Clinical practice should prioritize standardized screening protocols, multidisciplinary decision-making, and culturally sensitive tool development. Future research must address evidence gaps through head-to-head trials, AI-assisted tools, and real-world feasibility assessments.

  11. Extended abdominoplasty, a safe and effective alternative to circumferential body lift

    Presentation time:
    6 min

    Abstract Presenter: M. Monney

    Objective

    Abdominoplasty is a common reconstructive procedure aimed at improving abdominal contour. Indications include postpartum changes, aging, and massive weight loss, which often leads in significant skin redundancy affecting both physical and psychosocial health. Surgical options include abdominoplasty, body lift and extended abdominoplasty. The primary objective of our study was to assess the efficacy and the safety of the extended abdominoplasty in reconstructing an aesthetic waist.

    Methods

    We conducted a retrospective multicentric case series in two separate institutions in Europe and Oceania. All consecutive patients undergoing extended abdominoplasty were included. Postoperative courses were analysed; complications were recorded and classified. We aimed to identify potential risk factors. The primary endpoint was the overall complication rate of the extended abdominoplasty, compared with rates reported in the literature for lower body lift procedures. Secondary outcomes included qualitative assessment of body contouring and postoperative patient satisfaction and improvement in psychological well-being.

    Results

    Extended abdominoplasty is highly effective in correcting severe lower body skin excess, with low complication rates (less than 1 in 20) consistent with the literature. Although no significant risk factors were statistically identified, some factors likely impair postoperative healing. Compared to available data, body lift procedures are associated with substantially higher complication rates, including a broader and more severe spectrum of complications. Extended abdominoplasty appears to be a more standardised and less complex procedure, associated with lower morbidity and the possibility of safe combination with adjunctive techniques. In contrast, body lift remains a longer and more complex surgery with higher morbidity. Furthermore, patients experienced notable improvements in psychological well-being, including enhanced self-esteem and overall satisfaction.

    Conclusion

    The extended abdominoplasty is a safe and effective alternative to the body lift, with lower complication rates while achieving high-quality contouring of the flanks and hips. In addition, it provides meaningful psychosocial benefits, with improved patient satisfaction and body image acceptance. These findings support its use as a valuable and balanced approach in patients requiring trunk contouring.

  12. Non-invasive Body Contouring with High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Energy and Radiofrequency – Review of the Literature and Case Presentations

    Presentation time:
    6 min

    Abstract Presenter: A. Fejes

    Objective

    Emerging technologies combining High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Energy (HIFEM) with Radiofrequency (RF) are designed to build muscle mass and reduce fat simultaneously. The goal of this article is to provide a current literature review with some technical details, indications, case presentations including expected outcomes and side effects.

    Methods

    A PubMed/MEDLINE-based literature review is conducted with the following keywords: High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Energy; Radiofrequency. Patients in representative case samples undergo four treatment sessions with HIFEM in combination with RF, followed by a 90-day follow-up period.

    Results

    The currently available literature is limited and compromises five studies with a total of 202 patients. The mean reduction in fat thickness is approximately 30% at the 3-month follow-up. In two included studies, MRI measurements indicate an increase in muscle thickness of up to 24%. Overall, subjects demonstrated a high level of satisfaction with the treatment outcomes. In line with the current literature, our case examples suggest potential efficacy of the combined treatment with minimal side effects.

    Conclusion

    By synthesizing the available evidence, the technology appears to represent a promising non-surgical option for body contouring, as well as a potential adjunct following high-definition surgical procedures. These findings may pave the way for new treatment paradigms, with the potential to improve clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.