ANALYZING PREDICTIVE FACTORS FOR ABDOMINOPLASTY COMPLICATIONS IN MASSIVE WEIGHT LOSS PATIENTS: A RETROSPECTIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a “tummy tuck,” is a surgical procedure aimed at improving abdominal contour by removing excess skin and fat while tightening the abdominal wall. This procedure is frequently sought by patients who have experienced massive weight loss, either through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes. While abdominoplasty offers substantial aesthetic and functional benefits, the procedure carries risks of complications, particularly in patients with significant weight fluctuations (Marchica et al., 2023).

Massive weight loss patients present unique challenges for plastic surgeons. The skin redundancy, weakened abdominal musculature, and altered vascular supply can predispose these patients to higher complication rates compared to individuals undergoing abdominoplasty for cosmetic reasons alone. Common complications include wound dehiscence, seroma formation, hematoma, infection, poor scarring, and delayed wound healing (Saldanha & Salles, 2023).