Simplicity, ease of mapping and consistency of an improved esthetic outcome should be the hallmarks of any newly proposed surgical design in the field of esthetic surgery. If in addition such plan shortens the operative time and thus improves safety, it would merit consideration as a genuine breakthrough in the specialty.

From January 1, 2002 until December 31, 2008, 338 consecutive patients received their abdominoplasty using a strict methodology of pre-operative planning influencing intra-operative execution, the Mercator abdominoplasty. This technique consists of a series of Meridians, Parallels and Loxodromes drawn on the patient's body allowing the pre-operative determination of the extent of resection, the standardization of the plan while customizing the surgical design for each individual.

The operation was simplified and its duration significantly shortened. The esthetic outcome was visibly improved. The independent statistical analysis of results, while not included in the video, confirmed the safety of the procedure.

The Mercator abdominoplasty deserves consideration as the next step in planning and executing this surgery. The methodology has been tested and is applicable to a wide range of BMI (body mass Index)and has resulted in a superior and more predictable outcome than the traditional technique.