Sistematização de flancoplastia baseada na anatomia cirúrgica / Flankplasty systematization based on surgical anatomy

Introdução: O estudo explora a cirurgia de contorno corporal em pacientes submetidos a cirurgias bariátricas. Nos últimos anos, esse tipo de intervenção cirúrgica ganhou destaque devido ao aumento na busca por procedimentos reparadores após significativa perda de peso. O texto enfatiza a importância da flancoplastia, técnica que visa melhorar o contorno corporal. Métodos: Foi realizada revisão da literatura para elucidação da anatomia da gordura profunda da fáscia toracolombar, e feito um paralelo com a técnica de flancoplastia utilizada em nosso serviço em pacientes pós-bariátricos submetidos a abdominoplastia 360° ou 270° no Hospital Daher Lago Sul, em Brasília- DF. Resultados: A lipoaspiração profunda dos flancos, muitas vezes necessária em cirurgias de contorno corporal, pode não ser suficiente para retirar a gordura profunda à fáscia toracolombar e durante esse procedimento observa-se risco aumentado de lesões retroperitoneais. No entanto, a flancoplastia, que envolve a ressecção da gordura profunda à fáscia toracolombar, demonstrou proporcionar resultados satisfatórios e minimizar esses riscos. O estudo enfoca a importância do conhecimento anatômico preciso, destacando a relevância da flancoplastia como uma técnica valiosa para melhorar os resultados estéticos e reduzir complicações em pacientes pós-bariátricos, complementando a cirurgia bariátrica e melhorando a qualidade de vida do paciente.

Introduction: The study explores body contouring surgery in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. In recent years, this type of surgical intervention has gained prominence due to the increase in the search for reparative procedures after significant weight loss. The text emphasizes the importance of flankplasty, a technique that aims to improve body contour. Methods: A literature review was carried out to elucidate the anatomy of the deep fat of the thoracolumbar fascia, and a parallel was made with the flankplasty technique used in our service in post-bariatric patients undergoing 360° or 270° abdominoplasty at Daher Lago Sul Hospital, in Brasília-DF. Results: Deep liposuction of the flanks, often necessary in body contouring surgeries, may not be sufficient to remove fat deep into the thoracolumbar fascia and during this procedure, there is an increased risk of retroperitoneal injuries. However, flankplasty, which involves resection of fat deep into the thoracolumbar fascia, has been shown to provide satisfactory results and minimize these risks. Conclusion: The study focuses on the importance of precise anatomical knowledge, highlighting the relevance of flankplasty as a valuable technique to improve aesthetic results and reduce complications in post-bariatric patients, complementing bariatric surgery and improving the patient's quality of life.

Avaliação psicológica em cirurgia plástica pósbariátrica: Uma revisão de escopo / Psychological assessment in post-bariatric plastic surgery: A scoping review

Introdução: A obesidade pode acarretar consequências físicas, psicológicas e sociais. A cirurgia bariátrica tem o potencial de melhorar a condição biopsicossocial do paciente. No entanto, o excesso de pele após uma perda de peso rápida e significativa pode causar sofrimento psicológico. A cirurgia plástica, como o único procedimento capaz de remover o excesso de pele, tem o potencial de aperfeiçoar a autoimagem. Além disso, ela pode incentivar o controle do peso. Este estudo investigou, por meio de uma revisão de escopo, se a avaliação psicológica básica, realizada durante a triagem pelo cirurgião plástico, é capaz de identificar o sofrimento psicológico em pacientes que desejam se submeter a cirurgia plástica após a bariátrica. Método: Foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico, abrangendo artigos publicados entre 2013 e 2023, nos idiomas português, inglês e espanhol, nas Bases de dados MEDLINE, Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) e Embase. Resultados: Na estratégia de busca, 48 artigos atenderam os critérios de inclusão e 18 artigos foram mencionados neste estudo. Conclusão: A avaliação psicológica realizada na triagem do cirurgião plástico permite identificar o sofrimento decorrente do excesso de pele pós-cirurgia bariátrica e o sofrimento psicológico prévio. Isso facilita a decisão médica sobre encaminhar ou não o paciente para avaliação psicológica especializada. Essa abordagem amplia a compreensão do paciente sobre a relação entre corpo e mente.

Introduction: Obesity can have physical, psychological, and social consequences. Bariatric surgery has the potential to improve the patient's biopsychosocial condition. However, excess skin after rapid and significant weight loss can cause psychological distress. Plastic surgery, as the only procedure capable of removing excess skin, has the potential to improve self-image. Additionally, it can encourage weight control. This study investigated, through a scoping review, whether the basic psychological assessment, carried out during screening by the plastic surgeon, is capable of identifying psychological distress in patients who wish to undergo plastic surgery after bariatric surgery. Method: A bibliographic survey was carried out, covering articles published between 2013 and 2023, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, in the MEDLINE, Virtual Health Library (VHL), and Embase databases. Results: In the search strategy, 48 articles met the inclusion criteria, and 18 articles were mentioned in this study. Conclusion: The psychological assessment carried out during plastic surgeon screening allows the identification of suffering resulting from excess skin after bariatric surgery and previous psychological suffering. This facilitates the medical decision about whether or not to refer the patient for specialized psychological evaluation. This approach broadens the patient's understanding of the relationship between body and mind.

Fontes de energia externa no contorno corporal / External energy sources in body contouring

Durante a 39a Jornada Sulbrasileira de Cirurgia Plástica, em abril de 2024, um debate acalorado surgiu em torno da divulgação do uso de tecnologias para cirurgia de contorno corporal nas redes sociais. Um importante questionamento foi feito: elas estão sendo divulgadas prematuramente nas redes sociais antes de serem rigorosamente avaliadas? A frase do Dr. Ian Malcolm, célebre criação de Michael Chrichton, "Vou te dizer o problema com o poder que você está usando aqui, ele não exigiu nenhuma disciplina para obtê-lo" se aplica perfeitamente a essa situação. A divulgação de técnicas em redes sociais deveria exigir a mesma disciplina rigorosa que a pesquisa científica. A ausência de protocolos de pesquisa aprovados pelo Conselho Nacional de Ética em Pesquisa e de publicações de alto nível de evidência em revistas revisadas por pares levanta preocupações. O poder de aprimorar nossos resultados com o uso dessas fontes de energia externa é real e seu uso consiste em um grande avanço dentro da cirurgia plástica. No entanto, é imperativo que os cirurgiões plásticos exerçam cautela ao promover novas tecnologias. A disciplina científica deve ser o alicerce de qualquer avanço, e a divulgação responsável deve preceder a popularização. Somente assim, poderemos garantir que os pacientes se beneficiem de tratamentos seguros e eficazes, sem comprometer a integridade da nossa especialidade.

During the 39th South Brazilian Plastic Surgery Conference, in April 2024, a heated debate arose regarding the promotion of the use of technologies for body contouring surgery on social media. An important question was raised: are they being prematurely promoted on social media before being rigorously evaluated? The quote from Dr. Ian Malcolm, a famous creation of Michael Chrichton, "I'll tell you the problem with the power you're using here, it didn't require any discipline to attain it" applies perfectly to this situation. Promoting techniques on social media should require the same rigorous discipline as scientific research. The absence of research protocols approved by the National Research Ethics Council and high-level evidence publications in peer- reviewed journals raises concerns. The power to enhance our results using these external energy sources is real, and its use represents a significant advancement within plastic surgery. However, it is imperative that plastic surgeons exercise caution when promoting new technologies. Scientific discipline should be the foundation of any advancement, and responsible disclosure should precede popularization. Only then can we ensure that patients benefit from safe and effective treatments without compromising the integrity of our specialty.

Prospective cohort of parameters of glycemic and lipid metabolism after abdominoplasty in normal weight and formerly obese patiens.

Background: Obesity poses a major risk for cardiovascular diseases, while it is almost a consensus that intra-abdominal adiposity has a more deleterious effect for metabolic syndrome. In this sense, it is speculated that lipectomy or liposuction would be metabolically harmful, as it changes the abdominal-superficial adipose tissue ratio. However, the literature has shown conflicting evidence. Methods: In order to evaluate the possibility of metabolism alteration resulting from body coutouring surgery, a prospective cohort was implemented with 35 patients who underwent abdominoplasty, including some with a history of massive weight loss. Fasting blood glucose, fasting plasma insulin, triglycerides, total cholesterol and fractions were requested preoperatively and in the third postoperative month. The groups were also compared with each other. Results: No statistically significant variation between the exams collected in the preoperative period and those collected after abdominoplasty was found. There was a statistically significant difference in LDL (low-density lipoprotein; p = 0.033) and non-HDL (non-high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol (p = 0.020) between the two control tests of the groups surveyed. There were also differences in comorbidities (p = 0.006) and complications (p <0.001) between the groups. Conclusions: Abdominoplasty was not able of changing tests that assess glycemic and lipid metabolism three months after the operation. Our attention was drawn to the fact that patients who had massive weight loss had better control of LDL cholesterol (p = 0.033) and non-HDL cholesterol (p = 0.020), despite having higher weight and body mass index (p <0.001).

Use of negative pressure therapy in closed surgical incisions of post-bariatric dermolipectomy / Uso da terapia de pressão negativa em incisões cirúrgicas fechadas de dermolipectomia pós-bariátrica

Introduction: Negative pressure therapy gains ground in surgical practice as an intervention to improve healing. Post-bariatric patients undergoing abdominal dermolipectomy are at increased risk of local complications. There is a notable dearth of current Brazilian studies on this. This study aims to analyze the presence of complications in patients undergoing post-bariatric dermolipectomy surgery with negative pressure dressing in closed surgical incisions. Method: Descriptive study that evaluated complications of surgical incisions in 20 patients undergoing post-bariatric dermolipectomy surgery with negative pressure therapy. Data tabulated in Windows Excel software and analyzed in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 18.0 program. Qualitative variables were presented in simple frequency and quantitative as mean, standard deviation, and amplitude. CEP-UNISUL approved the study. Results: 20 patients undergoing negative pressure therapy, 80% (n=16) female, mean age 39.55 years (±9.08). Anchor incision was chosen in 70% (n=14) of the surgeries, with an average tissue removal of 1940 grams (±710.37) and hospitalization time of 40.20 hours (±19.18), corresponding to 1,66 daily. Only 15% (n=3) of patients had complications (dehiscence, seroma, and hematoma, which occurred in the same proportion). There was no case of necrosis. Conclusion: The use of negative pressure therapy in closed surgical incisions of post-bariatric dermolipectomy seems to contribute to reducing postoperative complications.

Introdução: Terapia de pressão negativa ganha espaço na prática cirúrgica como intervenção para melhorar cicatrização. Pacientes pós-bariátricos submetidos a dermolipectomia abdominal apresentam maior risco de complicações locais. Há uma notável escassez de estudos brasileiros atuais acerca disso. O objetivo desse estudo é analisar a presença de complicações em pacientes submetidos a cirurgia de dermolipectomia pós-bariátrica com curativo de pressão negativa em incisões cirúrgicas fechadas. Método: Estudo descritivo que avaliou complicações de incisões cirúrgicas de 20 pacientes submetidos a cirurgia de dermolipectomia pós-bariátrica com terapia de pressão negativa. Dados tabulados no software Windows Excel e analisados no programa Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 18.0. Variáveis qualitativas foram apresentadas em frequência simples e quantitativas através de média, desvio padrão e amplitude. O estudo foi aprovado pelo CEP-UNISUL. Resultados: 20 pacientes submetidos a terapia de pressão negativa, sendo 80% (n=16) do sexo feminino, com idade média de 39,55 anos (±9,08). Incisão em âncora foi escolha em 70% (n=14) das cirurgias, com retirada média de tecido de 1940 gramas (±710,37) e tempo de hospitalização de 40,20 horas (±19,18), correspondendo a 1,66 diárias. Apenas 15% (n=3) dos pacientes apresentaram complicações (deiscência, seroma e hematoma, que aconteceram na mesma proporção). Não houve caso de necrose. Conclusão: Uso da terapia de pressão negativa em incisões cirúrgicas fechadas de dermolipectomia pós-bariátrica parece contribuir na redução das complicações pós-operatórias.

The main abdominoplasty techniques used in post-bariatric patients after massive weight loss: systematic review / As principais técnicas utilizadas de abdominoplastia em pacientes pós-bariátricos após massiva perda de peso: revisão sistemática

Introduction: Obesity is defined by a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2, and today approximately 2.1 billion adults are obese. With this high number of obese people, the demand for treatment via bariatric surgery has been increasing to reduce weight, resolve comorbidities and improve quality of life. However, intense weight loss can cause adverse physical, aesthetic, and psychological effects. Plastic surgery becomes essential to resolve these adverse effects. According to the International Society of Plastic Surgery, 112,116 abdominoplasties were performed in 2020, representing 8.6% of all plastic surgeries performed in Brazil. The objective is to present the main abdominoplasty techniques in postbariatric patients. Method: Studies that met the previously defined inclusion criteria were included. Results: A total of 28 references were included in this systematic review. Discussion: Most seek abdominoplasty due to the excess skin remaining in various body regions and the impact on post-bariatric patients' quality of life and mental health. The surgical techniques addressed are classic abdominoplasty; fleur-de-lis or anchor; circumferences; and Scarpa's fascia. The total number of complications was 42%; the main ones observed were scarring, skin dehiscence, infection, and necrosis; the three added up to 32%. Conclusion: The improvement in the quality of life of patients undergoing abdominoplasty is evident, but further research is needed to relate abdominoplasty techniques to these patients with postoperative complications.

Introdução: A obesidade é definida pelo índice de massa corporal (IMC) ≥30 kg/m2 , e hoje cerca de 2,1 bilhões de adultos são obesos. Com esse alto número de obesos, a procura por tratamento via cirurgia bariátrica vem aumentando com o intuito de redução de peso, resolução de comorbidades e melhora da qualidade de vida. Entretanto, a intensa perda de peso pode ocasionar efeitos adversos físicos, estéticos e psicológicos. A cirurgia plástica passa a ser fundamental para resolução desses efeitos adversos. Segundo a Sociedade Internacional de Cirurgia Plástica, foram realizados 112.116 abdominoplastias em 2020, representando 8,6% de todas as cirurgias plásticas realizadas no Brasil. O objetivo é apresentar as principais técnicas de abdominoplastia em pacientes pós-bariátricos. Método: Foram incluídos estudos que cumprissem os critérios de inclusão previamente definidos. Resultados: Foi incluído nesta revisão sistemática um total de 28 referências. Discussão: Devido ao excesso de pele remanescente em várias regiões do corpo e o impacto na qualidade de vida e saúde mental dos pacientes pós-bariátricos, a maioria procura por abdominoplastia. As técnicas cirúrgicas abordadas são abdominoplastia clássica; flor-de-lis ou âncora; circunferências; e fáscia de Scarpa. O total de complicações foi de 42%, as principais observadas foram de cicatrização; deiscência de pele, infecção e necrose; as três somaram 32%. Conclusão: A melhora na qualidade de vida dos pacientes submetidos a abdominoplastia é evidente, porém é necessária a realização de mais pesquisas que relacionem as técnicas de abdominoplastia nesses pacientes com suas complicações pós-operatórias.

Electromagnetic field for supramaximal muscle stimulation: A retrospective study of safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Currently, even individuals who do physical activity regularly have some degree of dissatisfaction with their own bodies. The electromagnetic field for supramaximal muscle contraction has been the subject of research. High-intensity supramaximal muscle stimulation (HI-SMS) is a non-invasive technology used to strengthen, firm, and tone the abdominal muscles, arms, buttocks, and thighs and has been indicated for aesthetic purposes. AIMS: The present study aimed to examine the safety and efficacy of HI-SMS used in the abdominal muscles of patients through the analysis of clinical evaluation, biochemical serum profile, and patient satisfaction with the procedure. PATIENTS/METHODS: This is retrospective non-randomized and non-controlled study collected in a private clinic; all data from healthy participants (n = 25), aged between 18 and 55 years, were compiled and analyzed. All received eight 30 min sessions of electromagnetic field ONIX HI-SMS (intensity of the 90%-100%) located in abdominal, twice a week with intervals of 2-3 days. RESULTS: The results show that BMI, fat thickness, and waist circumference improved the body contour after the treatment. There was no statistical difference in the data referring to the values of AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine, cholesterol, LDL-C, VLDL-C, HDL-C, glycemia, LDH, CK, and IL-6. However, there was a reduction of "non-esterified" free fatty acids when compared to baseline. This treatment provided high levels of tolerance, comfort, and high level of satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, it can be suggested that the treatment with HI-SMS in abdominal muscles proves to be a safe technology with potential for non-invasive therapy for aesthetic purposes.

Can the use of photobiomodulation for localized fat reduction induce changes in lipid profile? A critical integrative review.

The objective of this study is to clarify whether PBM for measures reduction can cause significant changes in the lipid profile. This is an integrative review and only original articles, both in vivo and clinical trials, that were published between 2010 and 2022 were selected. The article references were also analyzed to identify additional studies. A total of 15 articles were critically analyzed. The wavelength used ranged from 532 nm (green) to 956 nm (near infrared), and many authors failed to describe dosimetric parameters properly, as well as other important characteristics for the reproducibility of those found. Although it is not fully clear about the PBM interference level on the lipid profile, in general, there was no significant difference in lipid parameters when PBM was used alone, and when associated with techniques that promote beta-oxidation, there was an improvement in these biochemical variables. PBM use for localized fat reduction do not affect lipid serum levels. Clinical trials using standardized parameters are crucial to obtain more reliable results.

Prevalência de cirurgia de contorno corporal em pacientes pós-bariátricos em um hospital universitário / Prevalence of body contouring surgery in post-bariatric patients at a university hospital

Introdução: O número crescente de pacientes com perda ponderal maciça, após cirurgias bariátricas, correlaciona-se com a procura por cirurgias de contorno corporal. Tais procedimentos reduzem queixas físicas e psicológicas, influenciando positivamente a qualidade de vida dessas pessoas. Todavia, há poucos dados quanto à resposta dos serviços que oferecem tratamento cirúrgico para obesidade mórbida frente a essa necessidade. O estudo tem como objetivo aferir a prevalência de cirurgia do contorno corporal entre 2015 e 2018, em pacientes previamente submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica, nos anos de 2014 e 2015, em um hospital universitário. Métodos: Consulta ao sistema de informação hospitalar e a prontuários médicos a fim de aferir prevalência institucional de cirurgia de contorno corporal pós-bariátrica. Foram excluídos pacientes que não tenham sido submetidos a ambas as cirurgias em nosso Serviço, os que realizaram os referidos procedimentos cirúrgicos em outros anos, bem como aqueles com registros incompletos. Resultados: Foram realizadas cirurgias bariátricas em 208 pacientes. Desses, 11% (n=23) foram submetidos a 27 cirurgias do contorno corporal, sendo a dermolipectomia abdominal (n=16) a mais realizada. A realização de mais de um procedimento para correção de deformidade corporal ocorreu em 13% (n=3) dos pacientes. A média de idade dos pacientes submetidos a cirurgia do contorno corporal foi de 37 anos, a maioria do sexo feminino (96%, n=22). Conclusão: A cirurgia do contorno corporal constitui etapa importante do tratamento da obesidade mórbida e tem caráter reparador. Há imensa carência dessa terapêutica, o que compromete irremediavelmente os resultados obtidos pela cirurgia bariátrica.

Introduction: The growing number of patients with massive weight loss after bariatric surgery is correlated with the demand for body contouring surgery. Such procedures reduce physical and psychological complaints, positively influencing the quality of life of these people. However, there is little data on the response of services that offer surgical treatment for morbid obesity to this need. The study aims to measure the prevalence of body contouring surgery between 2015 and 2018, in patients previously underwent on a bariatric surgery, in 2014 and 2015, at a University Hospital. Methods: Research in the hospital information system and medical records in order to assess the institutional prevalence of post-bariatric body contouring surgery. Patients who did not undergo both surgeries in our Service, those who underwent these surgical procedures in other years, as well as those with incomplete medical records were excluded. Results: Bariatric surgeries were performed in 208 patients. Of these, 11% (n=23) underwent 27 body contouring surgeries, with abdominal dermolipectomy (n=16) being the most frequently performed. The performance of more than one procedure to correct body deformity occurred in 13% (n=3) of patients. The mean age of patients undergoing body contouring surgery was 37 years, the majority was female (96%, n=22). Conclusion: Body contouring surgery is an important step in the treatment of morbid obesity and has a restorative feature. There is a huge lack of this therapy, which irreparably compromises the results obtained by bariatric surgery.

Mechanical Thromboprophylaxis Alone in Body Contouring Surgery for Post Massive Weight Loss Patients: Is this Good Enough?

BACKGROUND: Although the use of pharmacological thromboprophylaxis effectively reduces Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) incidence after body contouring surgery, this might increase the risk of bleeding and hematoma formation. In this scenario, the use of mechanical prophylaxis alone could be an attractive alternative. We aimed to evaluate the incidence of DVT in patients with massive weight loss undergoing body contouring surgeries in whom mechanical prophylaxis alone was indicated. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included all patients who underwent body contouring surgery after massive weight loss between 09/01/16-12/31/19 and received solely mechanical prophylaxis of VTD. Data collected included smoking habit, body mass index, history of cancer, use of contraceptives, magnitude of weight loss, Caprini scale, American society of anesthesiology physical status (ASA-PS) classification, and type and length of procedures. An analysis of DVT events during the postoperative period up to 90 days was undertaken. RESULTS: Sixty-four patients, in whom 82 BCS were performed, were included in this study. Most of them (89.1%) were female with a mean age of 47 ± 12 years. Mechanical prophylaxis methods used were elastic compression stockings, intermittent pneumatic compression boots, and early deambulation. In all cases, the average length of hospital stay was 26.3 ± 9.6 hours. Surgical times were less than 155,7 minutes in all procedures. Global incidence of DVT was 1.2% in a patient receiving mechanical prophylaxis alone. There were no bleeding complications or pulmonary embolism episodes. CONCLUSIONS: In this series, DVT incidence in patients with mechanical prophylaxis alone was deemed acceptable if compared to the incidence reported in the literature. Individualization of the risk of thrombosis and bleeding in this group of patients is of paramount importance to reduce complications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Skin Changes Due to Massive Weight Loss: Histological Changes and the Causes of the Limited Results of Contouring Surgeries.

PURPOSE: Outcomes of body contouring surgeries in patients who previously had obesity are limited because of the loss of skin quality. This study aimed to evaluate the morphometric characteristics of collagen and elastic fibers of the skin in the abdominal epigastric region of patients who had massive weight loss following bariatric surgery and compared such with the skin characteristics of patients with morbid obesity. METHODS: This observational study compared skin fragments from the epigastric region of 20 patients who had massive weight loss due to bariatric surgery and 20 patients with morbid obesity. The morphometric analysis was performed on the collagen system using the Picrosirius/polarized light method and on the elastic system using the Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin method. RESULTS: Reduction of thick collagen fibers (p = 0.048), increased thin collagen fibers (p = 0.0085), and increased elastic fiber density (p < 0.001) were observed in the massive weight loss group. No differences were found between the groups regarding mean age (p = 0.917) and total amount of collagen fibers (p = 0.3619). Structural dermis alterations in the massive weight loss group demonstrated collagenous remodeling, with consequent reduction of thick, organized, structured, and directed fibers in favor of thin, misaligned, and loosely arranged fibers. Weight loss was also associated with increased skin elasticity. CONCLUSION: The morphometric changes in the collagen and elastic system scientifically explained the already established clinical perception of cutaneous alterations in patients who had massive weight loss following bariatric surgeries.

Post-bariatric body contouring surgery: analysis of complications in 180 consecutive patients / Cirurgia de contorno corporal pós-bariátrica: análise das complicações em 180 pacientes consecutivos

ABSTRACT Introduction: bariatric surgery is the main treatment for cases of severe obesity and body contour surgery to correct body dysmorphia resulting from weight loss. However, these procedures are associated with a significant number of postoperative complications. Objective: this study aims to analyze complications in post-bariatric patients undergoing body contour surgeries and correlating them with the age and BMI of these patients. Methods: the current study is a retrospective study evaluating 180 consecutive patients undergoing body contour surgery after bariatric surgery within a period of three years (2014-2016). Data such as age, gender, Body Mass Index before bariatric and plastic surgeries, type of surgery performed and complications were collected, and correlated the age as well as the BMI of the patients in the pre-bariatric (PB) and pre-plastic (PP) periods with the complications presented. Results: of the 180 patients evaluated, 91.7% were females (n = 165), and the mean age was 46.3 ± 1.7 years. The most performed surgery was abdominoplasty (48.9%), followed by mammaplasty (21.1%). Some complications occurred in 26.1% of the patients with partial dehiscence (40.4%) and seroma (14.9%) being the most frequent. Patients who presented complications had a higher mean age (50.8 years) than those who presented with no complications, and major complications accounted for 2.7% of the sample. Conclusions: a statistically significant number of surgeries progressed without complications and, when they occurred, there were minor complications in most of the sample. Complications were more frequent in older patients with some of them having a BMI over 30 Kg/m2.

RESUMO Introdução: a cirurgia bariátrica é o principal tratamento para os casos de obesidade grave e a cirurgia de contorno corporal trata a dismorfia corporal resultante desta perda de peso. No entanto, estes procedimentos estão associados a um número significativo de complicações pós-operatórias. Objetivo: analisar as complicações maiores e menores que ocorreram nos pacientes pós-bariátricos submetidos a cirurgias reparadoras do contorno corporal e correlacioná-las com idade e IMC destes pacientes. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo que avaliou 180 pacientes consecutivos submetidos a cirurgia de contorno corporal, após cirurgia bariátrica, no período de 3 anos (2014-2016). Foram coletados dados como idade, gênero, IMC pré-bariátrica e pré-plástica, tipo de cirurgia realizada e complicações, correlacionando a idade e o IMC dos pacientes nos períodos pré-bariátrica (PB) e pré-plástica (PP) com as complicações apresentadas. Resultados: dos 180 pacientes avaliados, 91,7% eram do gênero feminino (n=165) e a idade média foi de 46,3 ± 1,7 anos. A cirurgia mais realizada foi abdominoplastia (48,9%), seguida da mamoplastia (21,1%). Complicações ocorreram em 26,1% dos pacientes, sendo deiscência parcial a principal (40,4%) seguida de seroma (14,9%). Pacientes com complicações apresentaram média etária maior (50,8 anos) que os sem complicações, sendo que as complicações maiores ocorreram em 2,7% da amostra. Conclusões: a maioria estatisticamente significante das cirurgias cursou sem complicações e, quando ocorreram, foram complicações menores na maior parte da amostra. As complicações foram mais frequentes nos pacientes de idade mais avançada, dos quais alguns com IMC maior que 30kg/m2.

Factores que afectan la calidad de vida en pacientes con cirugía de contorno corporal: estudio de cohorte / Factors that have an impact on quality of life in patients with body contouring surgery: a cohort study

Resumen Objetivo: Identificar los factores determinantes de la mejoría de la calidad de vida en pacientes sometidos a cirugía de contorno corporal. Materiales y Método: Se estudió una cohorte prospectiva de 113 pacientes sometidos a cirugía de contorno corporal. Se estudiaron características sociodemográficas, mediciones antropométricas, variables relativas a la cirugía y se aplicó el instrumento Body-Qol®. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó estadística descriptiva, modelos de ecuaciones de estimación generalizada y modelos de regresión lineal y logística. Resultados: Se encontró mejoría en la calidad de vida de forma global (p < 0,0001) y por dominios. Los pacientes con pérdida masiva de peso tuvieron peores puntajes pre y postoperatorio, sin embargo, un delta de mejoría comparable con los pacientes estéticos. Dentro de los factores determinantes, existió una relación positiva entre la edad y la mejoría en la calidad de vida de forma global. El índice de masa corporal (IMC) se encontró asociado negativamente con la mejoría del puntaje global. Dentro de los factores de la cirugía, los pacientes sometidos a lipoabdominoplastía tuvieron una mayor mejoría con respecto a otras técnicas. Además, el patrón de resección ampliado y en flor de Lis se asoció a menor mejoría en el puntaje global. Conclusión: La cirugía de contorno corporal mejora la calidad de vida de forma significativa. Los principales factores determinantes de esta mejoría fueron la edad, el IMC, el antecedente de pérdida masiva de peso y el patrón de resección.

Aim: To identify the factors that have an impact on the quality of life of patients with body contouring surgery. Materials and Method: A prospective cohort of 113 patients was studied. Sociodemographic characteristics, antropometric measures and variables related to the surgery were analized. The Body-Qol® instrument was aplied. Descriptive statistic, generalized estimated equation models and lineal and logistic regresions were used for the statistical analysis. Results: Improvement in the quality of life was found globally (p < 0,0001) and in every domain of the scale. The patients with massive weight loss had worse scores pre- and post-operatively than the esthetic patients. A positive association between age and improvement on quality of life was found. Body mass index (BMI) was negatively associated with improvement of the score. The patients that had a lipoabdominoplasty had a major improvement in comparison with other techniques. Also, the extended resection pattern and Fleur de Lis pattern were associated with lesser improvement in the global score. Conclusion: Body contouring surgery improves quality of life significantly. The principal factors that have an impact on quality of life were age, BMI, massive weight loss and resection pattern.

High Definition Lipoabdominoplasty.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the author's experience with the high definition lipoabdominoplasty technique for the treatment of abdominal flaccidity and lipodystrophy, with correction of muscle diastasis and definition of body contours. METHODS: This is a retrospective study analyzing the results of 146 patients operated on with the high definition lipoabdominoplasty procedure. RESULTS: The average age was 37.93 years (25 to 58). The average body mass index was 25.68 kg/m2 (19.6 to 29.9 kg/m2). Combined surgeries were associated in 76 cases (52%). The results obtained are demonstrated by comparing the pre and postoperative photos. DISCUSSION: With the advent of high definition liposuction, the results improved significantly, reaching a higher degree of definition and giving a more athletic and aesthetically pleasing contour. However, this procedure is not free of complications, and should be performed cautiously, while following specific protocols. With proper patient selection, this technique provides excellent outcomes when combined with abdominoplasty. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

What Is the Impact of Residual Obesity on the Risk for Postoperative Body-Contouring Surgery Complications in Postbariatric Patients?

BACKGROUND: There are an increasing number of patients presenting for plastic surgery after massive weight loss, and many of these patients have residual obesity that may compromise outcomes. The impact of residual obesity on the development of postoperative complications in postbariatric patients undergoing plastic surgery procedures is unclear. METHODS: We report the outcomes of 207 patients who underwent plastic surgery following RYGB from January 2011 to December 2018. RESULTS: Two hundred and seven patients (196 females, 11 males) with a mean age of 42 years underwent 335 separate operations. The average BMI at the time of plastic surgery was 27.43 kg/m2. The average weight loss was 47.08 kg. The prevalence of comorbidities was 26.6% and the most important presurgery comorbidities were arterial hypertension (10.1%) and diabetes mellitus (4.8%). Of the 207 patients who underwent surgery, 78.3% (168/207) underwent abdominoplasty and 45.0% underwent mammoplasty. The overall rate of complications was 27.5%. The prevalence of postoperative complications was not significantly different between patients with a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 and patients with a BMI < 30 kg/m2 (33.3% vs 25.9%, respectively; p = 0.344). CONCLUSION: In this group of patients, with specified anthropometric and clinical profiles, the residual obesity did not influence the incidence of postoperative complications in postbariatric patients after plastic surgery.

Risk and Reward: Public Perception of Gluteal Fat Grafting Safety.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to understand how sociodemographic factors influence perceptions of "Brazilian Butt Lift" (BBL), the cosmetic procedure with the highest reported mortality rate, among adult women. We also investigate whether education about risks changes willingness to receive this procedure. METHODS: A Qualtrics© survey including education about BBL was administered on Amazon Mechanical Turk, with inclusion criteria of female sex. RESULTS: Survey data from 489 female participants were included. 78.1% of participants found the BBL mortality rate to be higher than expected. 70.1% of the original 177 willing or neutral participants became unwilling to undergo a BBL after education. Multivariate logistic regression indicated that individuals who were more willing to undergo BBL after education were individuals who have a diagnosis of body dysmorphic disorder (OR 60.5, p = 0.02) or have an acquaintance who received a BBL (OR 230.2, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, survey participants were less willing to undergo BBL after learning its risks, indicating the critical role of patient education during informed consent. Additionally, individuals who are unhappy with their body shape, or who feel cultural or social pressure to attain a certain body shape, may accept higher levels of risk to improve their looks, suggesting patient motivation for the procedure may limit even the most effective informed consent process. In light of these findings, the surgical community may consider regulating the BBL procedure and improving safety using evidence-based risk reduction techniques. Ensuring that patients fully understand the risks associated with the BBL procedure is critical for both surgeon and patient. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Lipoplasty Combined with Percutaneous Radiofrequency Dermaplasty: A New Strategy for Body Contouring.

BACKGROUND: A new technique in plastic surgery termed percutaneous radiofrequency dermaplasty (PRD) is described. Customized radiofrequency energy is applied via the percutaneous route to produce skin tightening and fascia contraction at body temperature, avoiding thermal injury. We combine PRD with lipoplasty and call this combined procedure dermaplasty-assisted lipoplasty (DAL). The purpose of this study was to review both the safety and efficacy of DAL. METHODS: We developed the required novel device and technique to perform DAL and then performed a clinical trial including Type I and Type II lipodystrophy female patients undergoing a primary liposuction of the circumferential trunk. The trial comprised two phases. In Phase I, 51 patients were included in a prospective, comparative, controlled trial and divided into two groups. In Group 1, 29 patients underwent DAL, and in Group 2, 22 patients underwent a standard suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL) alone. In Phase II, 84 patients underwent DAL, including 9 cases initially scheduled for a mini-abdominoplasty. RESULTS: Phase I: We found better aesthetic results with DAL (93.1%) than with SAL alone (72.7%) [p < .05]. Postoperative correction of flaccid skin was superior with DAL (93.1%) than with SAL alone (36.4%) [p < .01]. Phase II: DAL achieved good-to-excellent aesthetic results in 94% of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: DAL was found to be a reliable and safe treatment for fat removal with concomitant skin and fascia tightening but without compromising the viability of the overlying skin. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

High-Definition Liposculpture: What are the Complications and How to Manage Them?

BACKGROUND: High-definition liposculpture is a novel surgical technique widely accepted among plastic surgeons. The aim of this article is to describe surgical outcomes with a special emphasis on complications in high-definition liposculpture patients. METHODS: An historical cohort of patients who underwent high-definition liposculpture from two senior surgeons was reviewed. Technique, patient selection criteria, preoperative marks and surgical outcomes are described. Postoperative complications are discussed. RESULTS: A total of 417 patients underwent high-definition liposculpture between 2015 and 2018. Primary liposuction and secondary liposuction were performed in 308 (74%) and 109 (26%), respectively. Combined surgeries were performed in 121 cases (29%). There were no systemic complications. Local complications included hyperpigmentation (n = 276), seroma (n = 125), nodular fibrosis (n = 83), unsatisfactory definition in superficial liposuction areas (n = 16), unnatural appearance of body contour (n = 17), VASER-related burns (n = 3) and Mondor's syndrome (n = 2). Most patients (94%) were satisfied with the results. CONCLUSION: High-definition liposculpture is a body contouring technique that has shown excellent results. Despite non-serious complications were frequent, most complications were local and safely treated without affecting surgical outcome. To know these complications will help to recognize them earlier and to adjust patient expectation about the postoperative period. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Recuperação clínica e laboratorial dos pacientes submetidos à cirurgia combinada de lipoaspiração corporal e lipoabdominoplastia / Clinical and laboratory recovery of patients undergoing body liposuction associated with lipoabdominoplasty

Introdução: A lipoaspiração corporal e abdominoplastia são cirurgias muitas vezes realizadas em conjunto para obter melhores resultados na modelagem corporal. Cirurgias associadas sempre aumentam a espoliação, por isto conhecer o comportamento da hemoglobina (Hb) no pós-operatório e a recuperação do paciente submetido a estas cirurgias combinadas é importante para sua segurança. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar a queda da Hb e a recuperação clínica e laboratorial dos pacientes submetidos à cirurgia combinada de lipoaspiração corporal e lipoabdominoplastia. Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo prospectivo em pacientes submetidos à lipoaspiração corporal e lipoabdominoplastia, coletando-se hemogramas antes da indução anestésica, ao final da cirurgia, antes da alta hospitalar, após a 1ª, 2ª e 4ª semanas de pós-operatórios e também acompanhando suas evoluções clínicas. Resultados: A média da Hb ao final da cirurgia e na alta hospitalar foi de 10,4g/dl (desvio padrão (DP) 0,76) e 8,92g/dl (DP 0,86), respectivamente. A recuperação em média da Hb após 1ª, 2ª e 4ª semanas foi de 2,4% (DP 18,07), 41,6% (DP 18,4) e 74% (DP 15,2), respectivamente, em relação a redução que ocorreu entre a Hb inicial e a da alta hospitalar. Queixas de fraqueza e lipotimia foram frequentes até o segundo dia. Conclusão: A melhora clínica ocorreu até o segundo dia de pós-operatório (DPO) e a hemoglobina levou aproximadamente 1 mês para normalizar na maioria dos pacientes tratados apenas com reposição oral de ferro, sem necessidade de hemotransfusão.

Introduction: Body liposuction and abdominoplasty are surgeries often performed together to obtain superior results in body modeling. Since associated surgeries often increase spoliation, being aware of the evolution of hemoglobin (Hb) in the postoperative period and during the recovery of the patients undergoing these associated surgeries is important for their safety. This study aimed to analyze the decrease in Hb and the clinical and laboratory results throughout the recovery of patients undergoing body liposuction associated with lipoabdominoplasty. Methods: A prospective study was conducted with patients undergoing body liposuction and lipoabdominoplasty. CBCs were collected before anesthetic induction, at the end of the surgery, before hospital discharge, after the 1st, 2nd, and 4th postoperative weeks, and during their clinical follow-up period. Results: The average Hb values at the end of surgery and hospital discharge were 10.4 g/dL (standard deviation (SD) 0.76) and 8.92 g/dL (SD 0.86), respectively. The average values during the recovery of Hb after the 1st, 2nd, and 4th weeks were 2.4% (SD 18.07), 41.6% (SD 18.4), and 74% (SD 15.2), respectively. This is in relation to the reduction between the initial Hb and at hospital discharge. Complaints of weakness and lipothymia were frequent until the second day. Conclusion: Clinical improvement was observed until the second postoperative day (PO day). Hemoglobin required approximately 1 month to normalize in most patients. These patients were treated only with oral iron replacement and did not require blood transfusions.