SUMMARY
Abstract
This study explores the role of radiofrequency-assisted liposuction (RFAL), specifically BodyTite, in combination with abdominoplasty for abdominal contouring. As patient demand for minimally invasive solutions rises, RFAL has emerged as an effective adjunct to address the “treatment gap”—patients with laxity too severe for liposuction alone but not warranting full excision. The authors introduce a two-stage approach: initial RFAL with large-volume liposuction under local anesthesia, followed by abdominoplasty three months later. This method reduces risks while maximizing contour improvement, particularly for patients with higher BMI or complex abdominal lipodystrophy.
Conclusion
Two-stage RFAL with subsequent abdominoplasty enables surgeons to safely remove larger fat volumes, achieve greater skin resection, and improve flap mobility while minimizing complications. Patient outcomes demonstrated enhanced contour definition, higher satisfaction, and reduced operative risk compared to single-stage procedures. The study recommends considering this staged RFAL protocol for patients with significant abdominal adiposity and skin redundancy, establishing BodyTite-assisted lipoabdominoplasty as a safe, effective, and reproducible method for challenging body contouring cases.
TOPICS COVERED
- Use of BodyTite RFAL for abdominal contouring in high-BMI patients
- Definition of the “treatment gap” population and how RFAL addresses it
- Two-stage lipoabdominoplasty technique: RFAL first, abdominoplasty later
- Benefits of RF-induced fibroseptal contraction for flap integrity
- Reduced complication risks by staging fat removal and excision
- Enhanced outcomes with improved contour, skin resection, and patient satisfaction
