Torsoplasty After Important Weight Loss

Weight loss exceeding 40 kg frequently causes excess skin on the lateral and posterior chest wall. Other authors have suggested surgical dissection of the excess skin using horizontal incision or, alternatively, using a vertical incision positioned in the axillary region. This procedure is incomplete and does not correct the skin ptosis in the subaxillary lateral chest wall. The current authors propose a surgical technique that permits resection of excess skin and lifts the torso on the back, positioning the scars on the anterior axillary pillar and around the breast. This treatment is performed for the patient after significant weight loss. The scar normally is hidden behind the anterior axillary pillar on the axillary fold.