Large-Volume Fat Grafting: Identifying Risk Factors for Fat Necrosis.

BACKGROUND: Fat necrosis is a well-recognized complication following autologous fat grafting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of fat necrosis after large-volume fat grafting and identify risk factors for fat necrosis. METHODS: A retrospective review was performed on 83 consecutive patients who underwent large-volume fat grafting (>100 cc) to the breast performed by the senior author (L.P.B.) between September of 2011 and May of 2016. Fat necrosis was defined as palpable nodules, or nodules seen on imaging. RESULTS: A total of 148 breasts underwent 170 autologous fat transplantations. Indications included the following: 72 reconstructions after surgical therapy and 98 cosmetic augmentations. Mean age was 48 years, median graft volume was 300 cc, and median length of follow-up 423 days. Overall incidence of necrosis was 32.9 percent, with 47.8 percent in previously irradiated patients. Increased incidence of necrosis was associated with increasing fat graft volumes (OR, 1.002; p = 0.032), increasing body mass index (OR, 1.13; p = 0.04), and simultaneous implant exchange with fat ( p = 0.003). Fat grafting volumes greater than 450 cc in a single breast were also associated with an increase in fat necrosis ( p = 0.04). Within a group of six patients who had bilateral fat grafting with unilateral radiation therapy, there was a significant increase in necrosis on the irradiated side ( p = 0.015). In a cohort of non-BRAVA patients, reconstruction (compared to augmentation) was associated with fat necrosis ( p = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS: Increased rates of fat necrosis were associated with volumes greater than 450 cc, patients undergoing concurrent implant exchange with fat grafting, and fat grafting after a history of lumpectomy or mastectomy without preexpansion. In addition, radiation therapy may be associated with a higher rate of complications. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Risk, III.

Skin Excursion with Cannula Lipodissection and the Anatomical Implications of Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System Movement in the Tumescent Face Lift.

BACKGROUND: The tumescent face lift uses the concept of subcutaneous cannula lipodissection of the neck, as opposed to wide skin undermining. Lipodissection mobilizes soft tissue while preserving perforating neurovascular branches. The purpose of this study is two-fold: (1) to compare the skin recruitment with subcutaneous lipodissection of the neck alone versus wide undermining and (2) to examine the effect of superiorly oriented superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) movement on jowl excursion in the tumescent face lift. METHODS: A cadaveric study was performed on five fresh tissue cadavers. Postauricular skin excursion was measured following subcutaneous lipodissection and then measured again after traditional, wide undermining of the neck skin. Jowl excursion (in reference to the mandibular border) was measured following superiorly oriented SMAS excursion. An electronic force gauge was used to measure force application during measurements. RESULTS: Cannula lipodissection resulted in a mean skin excursion of 41.9 mm. There was no significant difference in skin excursion compared to wide undermining (41.9 mm versus 42.1 mm; p = 0.785). Jowl position, in reference to the mandibular border, moved superiorly by a mean distance of 18.3 mm with vertical SMAS excursion. CONCLUSIONS: Subcutaneous cannula lipodissection results in equivalent skin recruitment in comparison to wide undermining of the neck. A superior vector of pull on the SMAS results in vertical excursion of the jowl in reference to the mandibular border.

Deformations of the Ear and Their Nonsurgical Correction.

The incidence of congenital ear deformities has been documented to be as high as 58% of all newborns. Unfortunately, the majority of these deformations do not spontaneously self-correct, leaving the child with a permanent deformity that can only be corrected through surgery. With the evolving simplicity of ear molding that can be done in the office, this can obviate the need for unnecessary surgery that comes with its own set of complications and a higher cost. Early detection and early treatment is key for successful ear molding. The purpose of this article is to review the types of deformational ear deformities and the most up-to-date literature on ear molding, increase awareness to this topic, and ultimately increase patient and parental satisfaction with their overall care.

Perioral Rejuvenation: A Prospective, Quantitative Dynamic Three-Dimensional Analysis of a Dual Modality Treatment.

BACKGROUND: The perioral region is the most dynamic anatomic area of the face and subject to complex and dramatic changes during aging. Successful treatment for perioral rejuvenation has yet to be identified, and prior studies have reported only subjective outcomes. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to utilize our validated dynamic 3-dimensional imaging technology to determine whether conservative neuromodulation combined with hyaluronic acid filler volumization can decrease perioral strain and increase volume with significant patient satisfaction. METHODS: An IRB-approved prospective study of a dual modality treatment for perioral rhytids was performed on females with perioral aging who had not had prior facial treatment within the past year. Eighteen (18) units of Dysport were injected into the upper and lower orbicularis oris and 1 cc of Restylane Silk was injected in volume-depleted perioral regions in each patient. Each patient underwent imaging with digital image correlation (DIC) and completed the FACE-Q survey prior to injection and at 14 days and 90 days postinjection. RESULTS: Thirty-two female patients were recruited. A significant reduction in perioral strain was observed at both day 14 and day 90. This was concomitant with a significant increase in perioral volume at day 14 that at 90 days was significantly retained in the marionette lines. Further, there was a significant improvement in patient satisfaction with overall facial appearance at day 14 that was maintained at 90 days. CONCLUSIONS: Conservative neuromodulation and hyaluronic acid filler volumization of the perioral region produces a significant reduction in strain correlating with high patient satisfaction, even at 90 days. This dual modality treatment is effective in rejuvenating the perioral region, and its future optimization will provide greater therapeutic options for this anatomically complex area.

Columellar Reconstruction following Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Injury.

Nasal continuous positive airway pressure is used increasingly to treat pulmonary immaturity in premature neonates. Nasal injury is common with nasal continuous positive airway pressure use, with full-thickness tissue loss at the columella among the most devastating complications. Columellar necrosis often imparts a full-thickness injury to the overlying columellar skin, the medial crura of the lower lateral nasal cartilages, the anteromedial inner nasal mucosal lining, and potentially the anterior septal cartilage. Consequently, the columella can become scarred and shortened. Although multiple techniques have been described to reconstruct the columella, no known technique has been specifically developed to treat the unique columellar defect common to severe nasal continuous positive airway pressure injury. Donor-site morbidity related to these techniques, and how growth of the reconstructed nose will proceed, are obvious concerns, especially in young children. The authors present a novel reconstruction technique that uses recreation of the defect with posteriorly based book flaps and auricular chondrocutaneous composite graft interposition. This technique has several advantages, including avoiding central facial scars, supplying well-matched skin color and texture, and facilitating robust tip support. The authors retrospectively review the use and outcomes of this technique from 1995 and 2016 on all patients with a history of nasal continuous positive airway pressure columellar necrosis at their center.

Female Genital Mutilation Reconstruction: A Preliminary Report.

BACKGROUND: Female genital mutilation (FGM) is internationally recognized as a violation of human rights. Though rarely discussed, FGM is prevalent, affecting hundreds of millions of females worldwide. OBJECTIVES: We believe that is important for plastic surgeons to be informed and prepared to address the surgical and emotional needs of these women. We present our experience on treatment of women subjected to FGM. METHODS: Three consecutive patients were treated by our clitoral restoration procedure. The procedure involves conscious sedation and involves wide release of scar tissue around the labia majora and clitoris. Labial flaps are elevated and secured down to the periosteum and the clitoris is allowed to remucosalize. RESULTS: Three females with grade II mutilation were treated. The average age was 32.3-years-old and the average follow up was 305 days. All patients self-reported improved sexual function and decreased embarrassment with their partners. And all recommended the treatment to other women subjected to FGM. CONCLUSIONS: FGM is a violation of the basic rights of women and children. Plastic surgeons can help these women restore their physical and psychological sense of well-being by providing effective reconstructive options. Our goal is to raise awareness of this problem and describe a simple yet effective treatment for women that have been subject to FGM. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5.

Treating Breast Conservation Therapy Defects with Brava and Fat Grafting: Technique, Outcomes, and Safety Profile.

BACKGROUND: Fat grafting has been demonstrated as a means of reconstructing breast conservation therapy defects. However, there is continued uncertainty regarding its clinical efficacy and oncologic safety. Furthermore, the role of external preexpansion (i.e., with the Brava device) remains unclear in this setting. The purpose of this study was to examine the safety and clinical outcomes of Brava/fat grafting following breast conservation therapy. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed on all patients undergoing fat grafting following breast conservation therapy. Complications were defined as either a clinically palpable oil cyst/area of fat necrosis or infection. The mean time of follow-up was 2.3 years. RESULTS: A total of 27 fat grafting sessions were performed on 20 patients, with an overall complication rate of 25 percent. The mean interval from completion of radiation therapy to fat grafting was 7 years and was not a significant predictor for complications (p = 0.46). Among those who underwent repeated grafting, there was no difference in the complication rates between their first and second encounters (p = 0.56). There was no difference in complication rates between patients with Brava preexpansion and those without preexpansion. Patients undergoing Brava preexpansion had a significantly higher initial fill volume in comparison with those who did not (219 cc versus 51 cc; p = 0.0017). There were no cases of locoregional cancer recurrence following fat grafting. CONCLUSION: Brava preexpansion was associated with higher initial fill volume in the setting of breast conservation therapy defects.

Early, Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Modeling Planned, Le Fort I Advancement With Internal Distractors to Treat Severe Maxillary Hypoplasia in Cleft Lip and Palate.

Traditionally, maxillary hypoplasia in the setting of cleft lip and palate is treated via orthognathic surgery at skeletal maturity, which condemns these patients to abnormal facial proportions during adolescence. The authors sought to determine the safety profile of computer-aided design/computer-aided modeling (CAD/CAM) planned, Le Fort I distraction osteogenesis with internal distractors in select patients presenting at a young age with severe maxillary retrusion. The authors retrospectively reviewed our "early" Le Fort I distraction osteogenesis experience-patients performed for severe maxillary retrusion (≥12 mm underjet), after canine eruption but prior to skeletal maturity-at a single institution. Patient demographics, cleft characteristics, CAD/CAM operative plans, surgical complications, postoperative imaging, and outcomes were analyzed. Four patients were reviewed, with a median age of 12.8 years at surgery (range 8.6-16.1 years). Overall mean advancement was 17.95 + 2.9 mm (range 13.7-19.9 mm) with mean SNA improved 18.4° to 87.4 ±â€Š5.7°. Similarly, ANB improved 17.7° to a postoperative mean of 2.4 ±â€Š3.1°. Mean follow-up was 100.7 weeks, with 3 of 4 patients in a Class I occlusion with moderate-term follow-up; 1 of 4 will need an additional maxillary advancement due to pseudo-relapse. In conclusion, Le Fort I distraction osteogenesis with internal distractors is a safe procedure to treat severe maxillary hypoplasia after canine eruption but before skeletal maturity. Short-term follow-up demonstrates safety of the procedure and relative stability of the advancement. Pseudo-relapse is a risk of the procedure that must be discussed at length with patients and families.

Complications and Cost Analysis of Intraoperative Arterial Complications in Head and Neck Free Flap Reconstruction.

Background Microvascular anastomotic patency is fundamental to head and neck free flap reconstructive success. The aims of this study were to identify factors associated with intraoperative arterial anastomotic issues and analyze the impact on subsequent complications and cost in head and neck reconstruction. Methods A retrospective review was performed on all head and neck free flap reconstructions from 2005 to 2013. Patients with intraoperative, arterial anastomotic difficulties were compared with patients without. Postoperative outcomes and costs were analyzed to determine factors associated with microvascular arterial complications. A regression analysis was performed to control for confounders. Results Total 438 head and neck free flaps were performed, with 24 (5.5%) having intraoperative arterial complications. Patient groups and flap survival between the two groups were similar. Free flaps with arterial issues had higher rates of unplanned reoperations (p < 0.001), emergent take-backs (p = 0.034), and major surgical (p = 0.002) and respiratory (p = 0.036) complications. The overall cost of reconstruction was nearly double in patients with arterial issues (p = 0.001). Regression analysis revealed that African American race (OR = 5.5, p < 0.009), use of vasopressors (OR = 6.0, p = 0.024), end-to-side venous anastomosis (OR = 4.0, p = 0.009), and use of internal fixation hardware (OR =3.5, p = 0.013) were significantly associated with arterial complications. Conclusion Intraoperative arterial complications may impact complications and overall cost of free flap head and neck reconstruction. Although some factors are nonmodifiable or unavoidable, microsurgeons should nonetheless be aware of the risk association. We recommend optimizing preoperative comorbidities and avoiding use of vasopressors in head and neck free flap cases to the extent possible.

A Simplified Nonsurgical Method for the Correction of Neonatal Deformational Auricular Anomalies.

Despite reported success of early nonsurgical splinting of congenital ear deformities, the technique has not been widely utilized due to difficulty with application and positional maintenance of these devices. Delay in treatment can result in unnecessary surgery for the child later in life. In response to this need, we developed a simplified system consisting of Velcro, conformers, and polysiloxane gel that can be applied in 3 steps. Before and after photos after application of the device were graded by a plastic surgeon independent of the study. A total of 33 ear deformities were treated. In all, 92.3% of ears achieved significant improvement and normalization of their ears after therapy. This device allows for a more straightforward and individualized application than current products available. Our hope is that practitioners involved early in the infant's care will utilize this technology resulting in improved outcomes and avoiding unnecessary surgery.

A Quantitative Analysis of OnabotulinumtoxinA, AbobotulinumtoxinA, and IncobotulinumtoxinA: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Prospective Clinical Trial of Comparative Dynamic Strain Reduction.

BACKGROUND: U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved formulations of botulinum toxin include onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox; Allergan, Inc., Irvine, Calif.), abobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport; Galderma Pharma S.A., Lausanne, Switzerland), and incobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin; Merz Pharmaceuticals GmbH, Frankfurt am Main, Germany). This study uses digital image correlation to compare dynamic strain reduction between available neurotoxins. METHODS: Seventy-three treatment-naive female patients aged were randomized to injection with onabotulinumtoxinA (20 units), abobotulinumtoxinA (60 units), or incobotulinumtoxinA (20 units) in the glabella. Imaging was conducted at 4, 14, and 90 days after injection. Change in average dynamic strain of the glabella was compared using ANOVA. RESULTS: At day 4, there was a 42.1 percent strain reduction in the onabotulinumtoxinA group, a 39.4 percent strain reduction in the abobotulinumtoxinA group, and a 19.8 percent strain reduction in the incobotulinumtoxinA group (onabotulinumtoxinA versus abobotulinumtoxinA, p = 0.77; onabotulinumtoxinA versus incobotulinumtoxinA, p = 0.02; and abobotulinumtoxinA versus incobotulinumtoxinA, p = 0.04). At day 14, there was a 66.1 percent strain reduction in the onabotulinumtoxinA group, a 51.4 percent strain reduction in the abobotulinumtoxinA group, and a 42.8 percent strain reduction in the incobotulinumtoxinA group (onabotulinumtoxinA versus abobotulinumtoxinA, p = 0.14; onabotulinumtoxinA versus incobotulinumtoxinA, p = 0.02; and abobotulinumtoxinA versus incobotulinumtoxinA, p = 0.36). At day 90, there was a 43.5 percent strain reduction in the onabotulinumtoxinA group, a 38.4 percent strain reduction in the abobotulinumtoxinA group, and a 25.3 percent strain reduction in the incobotulinumtoxinA group (onabotulinumtoxinA versus abobotulinumtoxinA, p = 0.66; onabotulinumtoxinA versus incobotulinumtoxinA, p = 0.12; and abobotulinumtoxinA versus incobotulinumtoxinA, p = 0.24). CONCLUSIONS: Using digital image correlation, the tested neuromodulators do not have equivalent strain reduction in the glabella at the doses used. These results confirm assertions of noninterchangeability. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, II.

Current Applications of Facial Volumization with Fillers.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: After reading this article and watching the accompanying videos, the participant should be able to: 1. Assess patients seeking facial volumization and correlate volume deficiencies anatomically. 2. Identify appropriate fillers based on rheologic properties and anatomical needs. 3. Recognize poor candidates for facial volumization. 4. Recognize and treat filler-related side effects and complications. SUMMARY: Facial volumization is widely applied for minimally invasive facial rejuvenation both as a solitary means and in conjunction with surgical correction. Appropriate facial volumization is dependent on patient characteristics, consistent longitudinal anatomical changes, and qualities of fillers available. In this article, anatomical changes seen with aging are illustrated, appropriate techniques for facial volumization are described in the setting of correct filler selection, and potential complications are addressed.

Patient Perceived Benefit in Facial Aesthetic Procedures: FACE-Q as a Tool to Study Botulinum Toxin Injection Outcomes.

BACKGROUND: There are numerous methods of assessing patient satisfaction with botulinum toxin type A neuromodulation of the glabellar rhytids. As the use of aesthetic neuromodulation increases both in breadth and number of procedures, there is a need for more comprehensive tools to evaluate patient-reported outcomes. The FACE-Q is a recently validated patient-reported outcome instrument that can be used to measure patient perceptions of botulinum toxin type A neuromodulation. OBJECTIVES: This study used the FACE-Q to assess patient satisfaction following botulinum toxin type A neuromodulation of the glabellar rhytids. METHODS: 57 female patients completed the FACE-Q, a survey that evaluates patients' satisfaction with their facial appearance. After this baseline survey, the patients received injections of one of onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox, Allergan, Dublin, Ireland), abobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport, Galderma, Lausanne, Switzerland), or incobotulinumtoxinA (Xeomin, Merz Pharmaceuticals, Frankfurt am Main, Germany) in the glabella. Two weeks post-injection, the patients completed the FACE-Q again. The percentage changes in patient responses were tabulated to determine how neuromodulation affects patient satisfaction with their facial appearance. The percentage changes for each of the neurotoxin groups were compared to determine if patient satisfaction with neuromodulation varies with the type of neurotoxin. RESULTS: Patient satisfaction with their overall facial appearance increased by 28% following neuromodulation. Patients stated that they believe they look an average of 5.6 years younger post-neuromodulation. There were no significant differences among the treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS: The FACE-Q demonstrates that patients are more satisfied by their overall facial appearance and age appearance following neuromodulation of their glabellar rhytids. Patients are equally satisfied with the improvement of their facial appearance regardless of which neurotoxin they received. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2: Therapeutic.

Costochondral grafting in craniofacial microsomia.

BACKGROUND: Craniofacial microsomia encompasses a spectrum of diagnoses associated with variable degrees of mandibular hypoplasia, facial asymmetry, chin deviation, occlusal abnormalities, and potential airway compromise. This study presents one surgeon's experience with costochondral rib grafting for mandibular reconstruction in children with Pruzansky/Kaban type 2B and type 3 mandibular hypoplasia. METHODS: An institutional review board-approved retrospective chart review was performed of all patients with craniofacial microsomia who underwent costochondral rib grafting for mandibular reconstruction performed by the senior author (S.P.B.) at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia from January of 1998 to September of 2013. Demographic information, surgical history, operative details, postoperative complications, and outcomes were recorded. Plain radiographs and preoperative and postoperative three-dimensional computed tomographic scans were reviewed. RESULTS: Two hundred fifty-five patients were diagnosed with craniofacial microsomia, and 22 patients met inclusion criteria. Twelve boys and 10 girls underwent grafting at an average age of 7.2 years. Thirty-three costochondral rib grafts were performed, 11 unilateral reconstructions and 11 bilateral reconstructions. Twelve hemimandibles were type 2B and 21 were type 3. No intraoperative complications were reported, and no incidence of graft resorption was noted. No additional procedures were required in 27 reconstructed hemimandibles (81.8 percent), whereas six (18.2 percent) required secondary distraction osteogenesis. Only one patient developed postoperative ankylosis. No malunion or nonunion was noted. CONCLUSION: The approach described in this article allowed the authors to obtain reliably good results with costochondral rib grafting for type 2B and type 3 mandibular hypoplasia associated with craniofacial microsomia. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Improving access to care: breast surgeons, the gatekeepers to breast reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Fewer than half of patients undergo reconstruction after breast cancer treatment, despite its quality of life benefits. Earlier studies demonstrated that most general surgeons do not discuss reconstructive options with patients. The aim of this study was to examine the likelihood of reconstruction within a cohort of mastectomy patients and compare rates of reconstruction between those referred and not referred for plastic surgery evaluation. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective review of the records of 471 consecutive patients between the ages of 19 and 94 years who underwent mastectomy between 2003 and 2007. Variables evaluated were age, body mass index, diabetes, laterality (unilateral vs bilateral), TNM staging, history of radiation, smoking history, insurance type, and race. RESULTS: Of 471 patients, 313 were referred for consultation with a plastic surgeon and 158 were not; 91.7% of those referred were reconstructed and 100% of those not referred were not reconstructed. The 2 groups differed considerably in terms of age (mean age 61.84 years in the nonreferred group vs 51.83 years in the referred group), body mass index (25.9 in referred group, 27 in nonreferred group), diabetes (15% in nonreferred group vs 3.5% in referred group), and laterality (14% of nonreferred group underwent bilateral mastectomies vs 26% of those referred). The groups did not differ significantly in terms of race or tobacco use. Those with private insurance were more likely to be reconstructed, but no independent effect of insurance type was seen on multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The breast surgeon's decision to refer a patient for reconstruction significantly affects whether the patient will receive breast reconstruction. Factors that appear to influence the referral decision are age, diabetes, body mass index, and laterality of mastectomy (bilateral more than unilateral).

Management of lip hemangiomas: Minimizing peri-oral scars.

PURPOSE: Hemangiomas are the most common benign tumor of infancy, affecting females more than males. Lip hemangiomas are of particular concern because of their relatively increased risk to ulcerate during the proliferative period. Ulcerated hemangiomas of the lip can lead to increased scarring, loss of lip contour, and disfigurement. Most will require surgical correction to restore normal labial anatomy. METHODS: A retrospective chart review between 2004 and 2010 for surgically treated lip hemangiomas was performed. Demographic data, location of the hemangioma, age at operation, and number of operations were recorded. Two independent observers evaluated lip appearance post-operatively using 5-point scales to examine scar, symmetry, contour, and color, with 5 being excellent and 1 being poor. RESULTS: Between 2004 and 2010, eleven patients underwent surgical correction. Ten of the eleven were female. 18% (2/11) were ulcerated. One third (4/11) was in the upper lip and two-thirds (7/11) were in the lower lip. The mean age of the patients at the time of operation was 3.6 years (range, 14 months to 17 years). The average number of operations per patient was 1.6 (range, 1-3). The average scores for lip appearance after surgical correction ranged between 3.95 (good) for lip contour to 4.5 (good to excellent) for color. CONCLUSIONS: Lip hemangiomas often require surgical correction. Treatment goals include restoration of normal lip contour and strategic placement of the incision. By taking advantage of the natural involution that occurs and careful planning, procedures can be staged to minimize distortion of the lip. Even lip hemangiomas that cross the vermilio-cutaneous (VC) junction can be excised and lip contour achieved without the need to extend scars beyond the VC junction.