Dermolipectomy
Dermolipectomy is a skin-tightening procedure used in plastic surgery which not only reduces fat but also actively shortens the skin’s surface.
Surgical correction of the body contour following significant weight loss or in cases of severe skin laxity often requires more than just liposuction. In plastic surgery, the procedure known as dermolipectomy is used for this purpose. This technical term describes a key component of body contouring surgery, in which not only is fat removed, but the skin surface is also actively shortened. In our glossary, you can find out what this medical term means, how the procedure is carried out and what risks are involved.
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Important note
This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.
What is a dermolipectomy?
The Dermolipectomy (derived from the Greek words ‘derma’ for skin, ‘lipos’ for fat and ‘ektome’ for excision) refers to a surgical procedure in which excess skin and the underlying fatty tissue are removed.
The aim is to significantly improve the body’s contours by tightening the remaining skin and to alleviate functional problems caused by excess tissue.
Areas of application for dermolipectomy
The procedure is used wherever the skin has lost its natural elasticity and has become „saggy“. The most common types are:
- Abdominal dermolipectomy: Also known as a tummy tuck. This procedure involves removing the so-called „fat apron“.
- Brachial dermolipectomy: Upper arm lifting (brachioplasty).
- Crural dermolipectomy: Toning the inner thighs.
- Circular dermolipectomy: A part of a body lift, in which the skin is usually tightened in a circular pattern around the torso.
The difference compared with liposuction
Patients often confuse dermolipectomy with traditional liposuction. However, there is a fundamental difference:
Liposuction:
In this procedure, fatty tissue is removed using fine cannulas. The skin is not removed; it must contract on its own (shrinkage). If the skin is too loose, liposuction alone will leave behind empty, sagging skin.
Dermolipectomy:
In this procedure, the excess skin is removed with a scalpel. Although this results in scarring, it achieves an immediate tightening effect that liposuction alone cannot provide.
Lipodermolipectomy: The modern combined procedure
In modern surgery, liposuction and dermolipectomy are frequently combined; depending on the area being treated, this is referred to as a lipodermolipectomy or a lipoabdominoplasty. In this procedure, the surgeon first removes the fatty tissue by suction to shape the contour and preserve the blood vessels, and then removes the precisely measured excess skin. This often leads to more harmonious results and safer wound healing.
The procedure and healing process for dermolipectomy
- Preparation The surgeon marks out the areas of skin to be removed with precision whilst the patient is standing.
- Anaesthesia The procedure is almost always carried out under general anaesthetic.
- Implementation The marked tissue is removed. If necessary, the underlying muscle layers (e.g. in the case of rectus diastasis in the abdomen) are also tightened.
- Closure The edges of the skin are sutured whilst under a certain amount of tension. Drains are usually inserted to allow wound fluid to drain away.
The recovery period following a dermolipectomy is demanding. Patients must wear special compression garments for several weeks to support the tissue and minimise scarring.
Risks and financial protection through follow-on costs insurance
Taking surgical risks seriously
A dermolipectomy is a major surgical procedure. Due to the often long incisions and the tension on the sutures, there are specific risks:
- Wound-healing disorders: Skin healing may be delayed, particularly at the points where the sutures cross.
- Seroma: The accumulation of wound fluid in the cavities that have formed beneath the skin.
- Post-operative bleeding and infections: General risks associated with any operation.
- Unsightly scarring: Because of the tightness of the skin.
Consequential Costs Insurance
Should such complications arise, expensive follow-up treatment or corrective surgery may be required. As, in accordance with Section 52(2) of the German Social Code, Book V (SGB V), statutory health insurance funds may require insured persons to contribute towards the costs of treatment in the event of complications arising from cosmetic procedures that are not medically indicated, a Consequential Costs Insurance provide essential protection for your financial security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
As the procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, you will not feel anything during the operation. You can expect some pain at the surgical site afterwards, but this can be effectively managed with medication. You will feel a distinct tightness in the first few days.
Depending on the extent of the operation, you should expect to be off work for two to four weeks. You will usually only be able to resume heavy physical work and sport after six to eight weeks.
Yes, a dermolipectomy always leaves permanent scars. However, an experienced surgeon will position these as discreetly as possible, for example in the bikini line or on the inner sides of the limbs.
As a rule, this is only carried out where there is a clear medical indication (e.g. in cases of chronic inflammation beneath an apron of fat that cannot be treated conservatively). A purely aesthetic desire for skin tightening is not usually covered.
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