The purpose of this study was to specifically compare the long term patient satisfaction of the abdomen after DIEAP flap procedure with conventional abdominoplasty.

34 patients reconstructed with a DIEAP flap (DIEAP group) and 30 patients who had undergone a conventional abdominoplasty (AP group) were asked to complete two study-specific questionnaires. One questionnaire covered general and specific aspects concerning abdominal outcomes and morbidity. The other covered general outcomes such as satisfaction with surgery and change of body image, self-confidence, social and intimate relations. In addition, all patients performed an abdominal muscle function test.

Inclusion Criteria:

• unilateral DIEAP flap, abdominoplasty

Exclusion Criteria:

• bilateral DIEAP flap, progressive cancer disease