Does Secondary Mechanical Manipulation of Lipoaspirate Enhance the Vasculogenic Potential of Fat Grafts? A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Fat grafting is a highly versatile option in the reconstructive armamentarium but with unpredictable retention rates and outcomes. The primary outcome of this systematic review was to assess whether secondary mechanically processed lipoaspirate favorably enhances the vasculogenic potential of fat grafts when compared to unprocessed lipoaspirate or fat grafts prepared using centrifugation alone. The secondary outcome was to assess the evidence around graft retention and improved outcomes when comparing the aforementioned groups. METHODS: A search on MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted up to February 2022. All human and animal research, which provided a cross-comparison between unprocessed, centrifuged, secondary mechanically fragmented (SMF) or secondary mechanically disrupted (SMD) fat grafts, was included. RESULTS: Thirty-one full texts were included. Vasculogenic potential was assessed by quantification of angiogenic growth factors and cellular composition. Cellular composition of mesenchymal stem cells, perivascular stem cells, and endothelial progenitor cells was quantified by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis. Fat graft volume retention rates and fat grafting to aid wound healing were assessed. Although the presence of industry-funded studies and inadequate reporting of methodological data in some studies were sources of bias, data showed SMF grafts contain an enriched pericyte population with increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion. Animal studies indicate that SMD grafts may increase rates of fat graft retention and wound closure compared to centrifuged grafts; however, clinical studies are yet to show similar results. CONCLUSIONS: In this systematic review, we were able to conclude that the existing literature suggests mechanically processing fat, whether it be through fragmentation or disruption, improves vasculogenic potential by enhancing angiogenic growth factor and relevant vascular progenitor cell levels. Whilst in vivo animal studies are scarce, the review findings suggest that secondary mechanically processed fat enhances fat graft retention and can aid with wound healing. Further clinical studies are required to assess potential differences in human studies.

Assessing the Efficacy of Submental Liposuction Association in Orthognathic Surgery: A Systematic Review.

PURPOSE: Despite the vast literature on submental liposuction, there are few studies describing its simultaneous association in orthognathic surgery. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the available evidence on the effectiveness of the combination between the 2 techniques. METHODS: This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist and used a comprehensive literature search across 7 databases. All studies discussing submental liposuction in orthognathic surgery were eligible for inclusion, regardless of language. The Joanna Briggs Institute assessment tools were used to assess risk of bias. After a 2-step selection process, a total of 10 studies were included, including 2 cohort studies, 1 case-control study, 1 case series, and 6 case reports. RESULTS: Sixty-seven patients from 5 countries were evaluated. Ages ranged from 15.1 to 50 years. The prevalence according to the facial pattern was similar, with a higher incidence in women. The major indications for surgery were related to the presence of skeletal deformities and aesthetic changes in the cervical region. The forms of evaluation used to indicate surgery were photographs (n = 29; 43.28%), visual scale by 2 surgeons (n = 20; 29.85%), clinical examination (n = 23; 34.32%), and cephalometric analysis (n = 17; 25.37%). The postoperative follow-up time ranged from 6 months to 7.9 years. Despite the different forms of evaluation, all articles mentioned benefits with the association of submental liposuction in orthognathic surgery. The most cited complications were sensory changes in the lower lip (n = 4; 5.97), facial nerve injury (n = 2; 2.98%), infection (n = 2; 2.98%), maintenance of submental lipomatosis (n = 2; 2.98%), and skin irregularities (n = 2; 2.98%). CONCLUSION: This systematic review showed that submental liposuction associated with orthognathic surgery improves cervical aesthetics and that it is safe, with a low rate of complications. However, the number of studies on this topic is limited, and the studies are not standardized. There is lack of information especially regarding the evaluation methods used. Metric techniques such as ultrasound and tissue caliper adipometry could be possibilities for future studies.

Subanesthetic Dose of Esketamine Improves the Sedative and Analgesic Effects of Dexmedetomidine and Remifentanil in Liposuction Anesthesia: A Prospective, Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial.

Purpose: Esketamine have anesthetic and analgesic properties. This study aimed to observe the enhancing effect of subanesthetic doses of esketamine (0.15-0.3 mg/kg/h) with dexmedetomidine and remifentanil during anesthesia for liposuction surgery. Patients and Methods: A total of 155 subjects were randomized with a 1:1 ratio to Group E (esketamine-dexmedetomidine/remifentanil, n=78) or Group C (saline-dexmedetomidine/remifentanil group, n=77). The primary outcome was satisfaction of patient and surgical team with the procedure. The secondary outcomes were the postoperative Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores, hemodynamic and respiratory changes, drug consumption, adverse event rates, and predictors associated with patient satisfaction. Results: Patient and surgical team satisfaction with the procedure was significantly higher in Group E than in Group C (4.7 ± 0.6 vs 4.2 ± 0.7, P < 0.001; 4.7 ± 0.5 vs 4.4 ± 0.7, P = 0.005). The postoperative AIS (4 [1, 6] vs 5 [2, 9], P = 0.012) and HADS-A (1 [0, 3] vs 2 [0, 6], P = 0.012) scores were significantly lower in Group E than in Group C. Hemodynamic and respiratory parameters were more stable in Group E than in Group C, with the lower opioids consumption of sufentanil (0 [0, 4] vs 5 [2.5, 7.7], P < 0.001) and remifentanil (700 [480, 900] vs 800 [500, 1200], P = 0.023) in Group E compared to Group C. On ordinal logistics regression, postoperative sleep quality (OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.62-0.79), anxiety level (OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.62-0.95) and recovery time in post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) (OR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.56-0.98) were identified as significant predictors associated with patient satisfaction. Conclusion: A subanesthetic dose of esketamine (0.15-0.3 mg/kg/h) as an adjuvant can improves the sedative and analgesic effects of dexmedetomidine and remifentanil during anesthesia for liposuction surgery. Clinical Trial Registration: ChiCTR2400080363.

Comparing the safety and effectiveness of different liposuction techniques for lipedema.

INTRODUCTION: Lipedema is a relatively common, frequently misdiagnosed, chronic condition that is often treated using liposuction when conservative therapies fail. Techniques such as traditional tumescent liposuction (TTL), power-assisted liposuction (PAL), and water-jet-assisted liposuction (WAL) are popular surgical interventions, although it is unclear how these techniques compare. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of liposuction in patients with lipedema. METHODS: Relevant English lipedema studies published in PubMed from January 2003 to April 2023 were identified. Ten articles with post-operative outcomes and complications data were included (2 TTL, 5 PAL, 1 WAL, and 2 articles used PAL and WAL). Results were summarized using descriptive statistics, and a randomized effects model was used to evaluate heterogeneity. RESULTS: A total of 2542 procedures in 906 patients were included. Combined outcomes for all techniques significantly improved pain, bruising, edema, tension, pressure sensitivity, cosmetic impairment, and general impairment (all P < 0.00001). TTL, PAL, and WAL led to significant improvements in pain reduction P = 0.0005), bruising, swelling, pressure sensitivity, or cosmetic impairment (all P < 0.05). However, WAL more effectively reduced tension and general impairment (all P < 0.005), but heterogeneity for these outcomes was high. Overall complication rates were low for the studies that used TTL (1.5%), PAL (4.0%), WAL (0%), and both PAL and WAL (2.3%). CONCLUSION: Liposuction techniques, including TTL, PAL, and WAL, resulted in significant symptom improvement in patients with lipedema with a relatively low complication rate. WAL may potentially result in a more substantial reduction of tension and general impairment with fewer complications; however, only a single study performed this method of liposuction exclusively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first meta-analysis investigating liposuction data in lipedema treatment.

Breast reconstruction through exclusive lipomodeling or in addition to a flap: Current status in Franche-Comté.

INTRODUCTION: Breast reconstruction after cancer surgery through lipomodeling can be performed alone or in combination with a flap. Our objective is to describe the proportion of techniques used on patients who underwent autologous reconstructive surgery after tumorectomy or mastectomy in Franche-Comté. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A bicentric retrospective observational study was conducted between October 2017 and December 2021 (NCT06101732), including three groups: those who underwent exclusive lipomodeling reconstruction after mastectomy (1) or in addition to a flap (2), and those who underwent exclusive lipomodeling reconstruction after tumorectomy (3). Socio-demographic, medical, and surgical data were collected and recorded in a specially designed software. RESULTS: Two hundred and fifty-one lipomodeling procedures were performed on 91 patients. In group 1, the average transferred volume was 1191mL with an average number of sessions of 4.4 spreads over 19.4months. In group 2, the average transferred volume was 676mL with an average operative time of 2.5 spread over 16.1months. In group 3, the average transferred volume was 223mL with an average number of sessions of 1.5 spreads over 6.2months. Regarding postoperative complications, 11% had cysts of fat necrosis, 4.4% had infections, and 2.2% had hematomas. CONCLUSION: Lipomodeling is a technique that has clearly established itself in the field of breast reconstructive surgery. It results in a few complications and improves the final aesthetic outcome whether used exclusively or in addition to a flap.

Effectiveness of ultrasound-guided rhomboid intercostal and sub-serratus block for perioperative analgesia in male patients undergoing combined power-assisted liposuction with pull-through excision of the gland for breast definition and reshaping.

BACKGROUND: The newly introduced ultrasound guided interfacial rhomboid intercostal and sub-serratus (RISS) block technique demonstrated promising efficacy in managing perioperative pain among patients undergoing abdominal and thoracic procedures. Thus, this study investigated the efficiency of bilateral ultrasound-guided RISS (US-RISS) as a perioperative pain control technique in male subjects receiving gynecomastia surgery. METHODS: This prospective randomized study involved sixty patients who underwent gynecomastia surgery. Individuals were randomly divided into two groups: the RISS group (N.=30) and the control group (N.=30). After anesthesia induction, the patients received bilateral US-RISS using 40 mL of 0.25% levobupivacaine, or conventional intravenous analgesia with no intervention, respectively. The primary outcome was the overall morphine consumption in 24 hours, and the secondary endpoints involved the time elapsed till rescue analgesia was requested, the quality of recovery after 24 hours and side effects' incidence. RESULTS: Morphine consumption was noticeably decreased in the RISS group compared to the control group, with 14.07±4.91 mg and 35.83±1.70 mg mean values, respectively (P<0.001). Furthermore, in the RISS group, the initial rescue analgesia request occurred significantly later than in the control group, with mean values of 15.58±1.41 hours and 0.96±0.63 hours, respectively (P<0.001). Additionally, within the RISS group, there was a high quality of recovery observed, with a low incidence of opioid-related adverse events in comparison to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral US-RISS block is a beneficial intervention in gynecomastia surgery for pain management and improves the quality of recovery.

Comparative Study of 1444 nm Laser Monotherapy versus Integrated Liposuction in the Treatment of Axillary Osmidrosis.

Background and Objectives: The 1444 nm wavelength Neodymium:Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser treatment is an efficient method for treating axillary osmidrosis (AO); however, it has a relatively low treatment persistence. To address this issue, we performed integrated liposuction surgery with a laser to treat AO and compared the results with those of a group treated only with a laser. Materials and Methods: This study compared the outcomes of AO treatment between the two groups up to six months postoperatively. The first group of 18 patients underwent laser treatment alone, and the second group of 12 patients underwent integrated liposuction surgery in addition to laser treatment. Outcomes were assessed using the following variables: degree of malodor (DOM), sweating area, patient satisfaction, pain levels, and complications, such as burns, swelling, and contractures. Results: Compared to the laser-only group, the integrated liposuction group demonstrated significantly superior outcomes in terms of DOM (p = 0.002) and patient satisfaction (p = 0.006), as well as a reduction in the sweating area (p = 0.012). The pain rating was higher in the liposuction group, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.054). Compared with the patients in the integrated liposuction treatment group, those in the laser treatment group exhibited a significantly higher number of burns under the axillae (p = 0.025). However, no significant differences were observed in the swelling or contracture between the groups. Conclusions: Integrated liposuction with laser therapy significantly improved treatment outcomes, including malodor, patient satisfaction, sweat test results, and decreased complication rates.

Poloxamer 188 washing of lipoaspirate improves fat graft survival: A comparative study in nude mice.

BACKGROUND: Autologous fat transplantation is limited by the uncertainty of graft retention, impeding its application. Among the current strategies for processing lipoaspirates, high-density fat (HDF) is recommended owing to the enrichment of stem cells and washing before cotton concentration for simplicity of operation. Poloxamer 188 (P188) washing has been shown to repair the membranes of damaged cells. This study aimed to investigate the effect of P188-washing on fat graft survival and identify the best technique for processing lipoaspirates. METHODS: Lipoaspirates were prepared using centrifugation to obtain HDF, which was then washed with saline or P188 followed by cotton concentration. Tissue integrity, adipocytic activity, and viability of stromal vascular fraction (SVF) in the samples from the 3 groups were assessed. Samples were sequenced in vitro using high-throughput RNA-seq, and differentially expressed genes were validated using qPCR and western blotting (WB). After transplantation under the dorsum of nude mice for 8 weeks, the grafts were extracted and examined for residual volume, histologic characteristics, and vascularization. RESULTS: The HDF and P188 groups showed a higher survival rate of SVF, more Ki67-positive cells, intact tissue structure, and lesser fibrosis than the saline group. There were no significant differences in the density of SVF and residual volume of grafts. HDF showed significantly improved vascularization during 8 weeks. Through RNA-seq and bioinformatic analysis, notable changes in several related genes after transplantation were observed. CONCLUSIONS: P188 treatment can prevent cells from apoptosis and preserve tissue viability, thereby improving graft quality. HDF contains large amounts of SVF and can be regarded as an excellent grafting material.

Unreported Source of Interference with the Bispectral Index During Liposuction: A Case Report.

Incorrect bispectral index (BIS) values have been reported due to interference with this monitoring system. We report a case of a 46-year-old woman who underwent liposuction and breast lipofilling, where we observed a misinterpretation by the BIS algorithm that has not yet been reported. Concurrently with abdominal and thigh liposuction, an increase in the BIS value was observed. The importance of examining electroencephalogram (EEG) and density spectral array (DSA) readings during liposuction procedures is highlighted in this case report, extending our observations beyond just the numerical BIS value, which is not always reliable.

Lipoabdominoplastia con definición anatómica. Actualización / Lipoabdominoplasty with anatomical defi nition. Update

Existe en la práctica diaria de los cirujanos plásticos una búsqueda continua de mejores alternativas técnicas para el tratamiento de las deformidades del contorno abdominal. La LADE (Lipoabdominoplastia con defi nición anatómica) da un paso más adelante de la técnica LAP tradicional. Esta técnica incorpora los principios de resaltar la defi nición de la musculatura abdominal, consiguiendo resultados más naturales y con menos estigmas de una intervención quirúrgica. Los resultados estéticos son mucho más armoniosos, con un verdadero aspecto abdominal rejuvenecido. Logramos reducir la morbilidad preservando los vasos sanguíneos perforantes y suspendiendo la fascia de Scarpa. Una correcta selección del paciente asociado a la estandarización de esta técnica hace que el procedimiento sea seguro y reproducible

There is a continuous search for better technical alternatives for the treatment of abdominal contour deformities in the practice of plastic surgeons. LADE ­ Lipoabdominoplasty with Anatomical Defi nition ­ is a step ahead of the traditional LAP technique. This technique incorporated the principles of highlighting the defi nition of the abdominal musculature, achieving more natural results with fewer reminders of a surgical intervention. The aesthetic results are much harmonious, with a true abdominal rejuvenated appearance. We can reduce morbidity by preservation of perforating blood vessels and suspension of Scarpa's fascia. The correct selection of the patient associated with the standardization of this technique makes the procedure safe and reproducible

A randomized intraindividual comparative study evaluating the effects of two ultrasound-assisted liposuction devices on the abdomen.

BACKGROUND: Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL) has become popular because of its favorable outcomes in fat emulsification, blood loss reduction, and skin tightening. This study aimed to compare the effects of two UAL devices on the abdomen by assessing postsurgery skin biomechanical properties. METHODS: This single-blind, prospective study (2020-2022) involved 13 liposuction procedures performed on patients without chronic diseases. Each patient's abdomen was divided vertically from the xiphoid to the perineum. Vibration amplification of sound energy at resonance (VASER)-assisted liposuction (Solta Medical, Inc., Hayward, CA) was performed on one half, while the other half underwent liposuction with high-frequency ultrasound energy (HEUS)-assisted technology. Skin biomechanical measurements, including distensibility, net elasticity, biological elasticity, hydration, erythema, melanin, and skin firmness, were taken at 12 and 24 months postsurgery, focusing on the anterior abdomen, 8 cm to the right and left of the umbilicus. RESULTS: Analysis of the above skin biomechanical measurements revealed no significant differences between the HEUS and VASER devices, except for skin firmness, which showed a notable increase following HEUS surgery. Patient-perceived clinical differences were assessed via nonvalidated questionnaires, revealing no distinctions between devices. CONCLUSION: Biomechanical skin results post-UAL surgery with these devices on the abdomen were not significantly different, although HEUS revealed increased skin firmness. This suggests that HEUS-assisted technology, akin to other devices, is a viable option for UAL procedures.

Synchronous supraclavicular vascularized lymph node transfer and liposuction for gynecological cancer-related lower extremity lymphedema: A clinical comparative analysis of three different procedures.

OBJECTIVE: Gynecological cancer-related lower extremity lymphedema (GC-LEL), a chronic, progressive condition, lacks a standardized treatment. Currently, supraclavicular vascularized lymph node transfer (SC-VLNT) is a favored approach in the treatment of lymphedema, and there is a trend toward combination technology. This study conducts a comparative analysis of three techniques for treating GC-LEL with simultaneous SC-VLNT and liposuction. METHODS: A cohort of 35 patients with GC-LEL was examined, comprising 13 patients who underwent single lymph nodes flap with a skin paddle (SLNF+P), 12 who received single lymph nodes flap without a skin paddle (SLNF), and 10 who accepted dual lymph nodes flap without a skin paddle (DLNF). Patient demographics and outcomes were meticulously documented, covering intra- and postoperative variables. RESULTS: The median limb volume reduction were 56.4% (SLNF+P), 60.8% (SLNF), and 50.5% (DLNF) in stage II, and 54.0% (SLNF+P), 59.8% (SLNF), and 54.4% (DLNF) in stage III. DLNF group procedures entailed longer flap harvesting and transplantation times. The SLNF+P group, on average, had an 8-day postoperative hospitalization, longer than others. All patients noted subjective improvements in Lymphedema Quality of Life scores, with lymphoscintigraphy revealing enhanced lymphatic flow in 29 of the 35 cases. A notable decrease in cellulitis incidence was observed. Additionally, the occurrence of cellulitis decreased significantly, except for DLNF (Stage Ⅱ). The median follow-up time was 16 months (range, 12-36 months), with no reported severe postoperative complications. CONCLUSIONS: For advanced GC-LEL, SLNF combined with liposuction is a preferred treatment, offering fewer complications, shorter operative time, and hospitalization.

Acute upper airway obstruction due to cervical hematoma after cervicofacial liposuction.

Liposuction is a surgical procedure performed worldwide. Although many fatal complications of liposuction have been reported, to our knowledge, no cases of fatal liposuction complications specifically related to the face region have been reported. Here, we present a case of a woman in her 30s who developed a cervical hematoma and upper airway obstruction following facial liposuction. We present this unique case to highlight the rare occurrence of fatal complications specific to facial liposuction. The patient underwent liposuction during surgery at a cosmetic surgical clinic and awoke from anesthesia after the procedure. Two hours later, she developed a neck swelling and dyspnea. While the anesthesiologist managed her airway, she went into cardiopulmonary arrest. She was then transferred to the emergency room but died on day 7 of hospitalization. The autopsy revealed swelling of the right cheek and mandible, a subcutaneous hematoma in the same area, and laryngeal edema. A damaged facial artery branch was identified, which was consistent with the computed tomography (CT) findings on admission. CT also showed that the hematoma compressed the right internal jugular vein, suggesting that venous outflow impairment caused by the hematoma may have exacerbated the airway obstruction. This case reveals that cervical hematoma caused by facial liposuction can cause fatal upper airway obstruction and the onset of the hematoma may be gradual.

Evaluación del efecto de la liposucción con o sin abdominoplastia sobre la resistencia a la insulina en pacientes normoglucémicas con sobrepeso: un estudio prospectivo de cohorte / The effect of liposuction versus liposuction with abdominoplasty on insulin resistance in normoglycemic non-obese females: A prospective cohort study

Introducción: Varios estudios han evaluado el efecto de la liposucción o de la abdominoplastia sobre la salud metabólica, incluyendo la resistencia a la insulina, con resultados mixtos. A varias pacientes con sobrepeso, sin obesidad marcada, se les recomienda el procedimiento de liposucción combinado con abdominoplastia, sin que exista publicada evidencia alguna sobre la efectividad de combinar ambos procedimientos en la salud metabólica. Métodos: El presente estudio prospectivo de cohorte evaluó el cambio en la resistencia a la insulina y otros parámetros metabólicos en dos grupos de mujeres hispanoamericanas normoglucémicas con sobrepeso. Las pacientes del primer grupo fueron sometidas a liposucción únicamente (LIPO), mientras que el segundo grupo fue sometido a liposucción con abdominoplastia (LIPO+ABDO). Resultados: Un total de 31 pacientes fueron evaluadas, incluyendo a 13 con LIPO y 18 con LIPO+ABDO; ambos grupos mostraron HOMA-IR prequirúrgicos similares (p>0,72). En las del grupo LIPO evaluadas 60días después del procedimiento, se observaron HOMA-IR similares a sus niveles prequirúrgicos (2.,98±0,4 vs. 2,70±0,3, p>0,20); las del grupo LIPO+ABDO, sin embargo, mostraron HOMA-IR significativamente reducidos en comparación de sus índices prequirúrgicos (2,37±0,2 vs. 1,73±0,1, p<0,001). También en este grupo, esta reducción se correlacionó positivamente con el valor prequirúrgico de HOMA-IR (p<0,001) y, de manera interesante, se observó una correlación negativa entre la edad de la paciente y el grado de disminución en el HOMA-IR tras la cirugía (Spearman r=−0,56, p<0,05). No se observaron cambios en los otros parámetros bioquímicos evaluados. Conclusiones: Los datos de este estudio sugieren que cuando es combinada con abdominoplastia, la liposucción mejora la resistencia a la insulina en pacientes hispanoamericanas. Se requieren de estudios adicionales para probar dicha posibilidad.(AU)

Introduction: Several studies have evaluated the effect of liposuction or abdominoplasty on metabolic health, including insulin resistance, with mixed results. Many overweight patients, with no marked obesity, are recommended to undergo liposuction combined with abdominoplasty, but no study has evaluated the effectiveness of combining the two procedures on metabolic health. Methods: The present prospective cohort study compares the metabolic parameters of two groups of normoglycemic Hispanic women without obesity. The first group underwent liposuction only (LIPO), while the second group had combined liposuction and abdominoplasty (LIPO+ABDO). Results: A total of 31 patients were evaluated, including 13 in the LIPO group and 18 in the LIPO+ABDO group. The two groups had similar HOMA-IR before surgery (P>.72). When tested 60days after surgery, women in the LIPO group had similar HOMA-IR compared to their preoperative levels (2.98±0.4 vs. 2.70±0.3; P>.20). However, the LIPO+ABDO group showed significantly reduced HOMA-IR values compared to their preoperative levels (2.37±0.2 vs. 1.73±0.1; P<.001). In this group, this decrease also positively correlated with their preoperative HOMA-IR (Spearman r=0.72; P<.001) and, interestingly, we observed a negative correlation between the age of the subjects and the drop in HOMA-IR after surgery (Spearman r=−0.56; P<.05). No changes were observed in the other biochemical parameters that were assessed. Conclusions: These data suggest that, when combined with abdominoplasty, liposuction does improve insulin resistance in healthy Hispanic females. More studies are warranted to address this possibility.(AU)

Comparative Analysis of Ventral Hernia Repair and Transverse Abdominis Release With and Without Panniculectomy: A 4-Year Match-Pair Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Amid rising obesity, concurrent ventral hernia repair and panniculectomy procedures are increasing. Long-term outcomes of transverse abdominis release (TAR) combined with panniculectomy remain understudied. This study compares clinical outcomes and quality of life (QoL) after TAR, with or without panniculectomy. METHODS: A single-center retrospective review from 2016 to 2022 evaluated patients undergoing TAR with and without panniculectomy. Propensity-scored matching was based on age, body mass index, ASA, and ventral hernia working group. Patients with parastomal hernias were excluded. Patient/operative characteristics, postoperative outcomes, and QoL were analyzed. RESULTS: Fifty subjects were identified (25 per group) with a median follow-up of 48.8 months (interquartile range, 43-69.7 months). The median age and body mass index were 57 years (47-64 years) and 31.8 kg/m2 (28-36 kg/m2), respectively. The average hernia defect size was 354.5 cm2 ± 188.5 cm2. There were no significant differences in hernia recurrence, emergency visits, readmissions, or reoperations between groups. However, ventral hernia repair with TAR and panniculectomy demonstrated a significant increase in delayed healing (44% vs 4%, P < 0.05) and seromas (24% vs 4%, P < 0.05). Postoperative QoL improved significantly in both groups (P < 0.005) across multiple domains, which continued throughout the 4-year follow-up period. There were no significant differences in QoL among ventral hernia working group, wound class, surgical site occurrences, or surgical site occurrences requiring intervention (P > 0.05). Patients with concurrent panniculectomy demonstrated a significantly greater percentage change in overall scores and appearance scores. CONCLUSIONS: Ventral hernia repair with TAR and panniculectomy can be performed safely with low recurrence and complication rates at long-term follow-up. Despite increased short-term postoperative complications, patients have a significantly greater improvement in disease specific QoL.

Assessing Long-Term Volume Retention in Breast Fat Grafting: A Comparative Study of Lipoaspirate Processing Techniques.

INTRODUCTION: Autologous fat grafting is a method of improving aesthetic outcomes after both breast reconstruction and aesthetic surgery through volume enhancement and tissue contouring. Long-lasting effects are linked to greater patient satisfaction and more optimal augmentation results. Harvesting, processing, and injection techniques may all affect the longevity of deformity filling. Our objective is to evaluate the effect of lipoaspirate processing modality on longitudinal volume retention after surgery. METHODS: A prospective, single-institution, randomized control trial placed consented postmastectomy fat grafting patients into 1 of 3 treatment arms (active filtration, low-pressure decantation, and standard decantation) in a 1:1:1 ratio. A preoperative 3-dimensional scan of the upper torso was taken as baseline. At the 3-month postoperative visit, another 3D scan was taken. Audodesk Meshmixer was used to evaluate the volume change. RESULTS: The volume of fat injected during the initial procedure did not differ significantly between the treatment arms (P > 0.05). Both active filtration and low-pressure decantation resulted in higher percentage volume retention than traditional decantation (P < 0.05). Active filtration and low-pressure decantation exhibited comparable degrees of fat maintenance at 3 months (P > 0.05). DISCUSSION: Compared with using traditional decantation as the lipoaspirate purification technique, active filtration and low-pressure decantation may have led to higher levels of cell viability by way of reduced cellular debris and other inflammatory components that may contribute to tissue resorption and necrosis. Further immunohistochemistry studies are needed to examine whether active filtration and low-pressure decantation lead to lipoaspirates with more concentrated viable adipocytes, progenitor cells, and factors for angiogenesis.

Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia Following Cryolipolysis.

Cryolipolysis (CL) is a noninvasive technique in which applicators cool tissue to temperatures that selectively destroy adipocytes. Since its introduction to the market, it has rapidly become one of the leading nonsurgical modalities to reduce fat in the aesthetic industry. Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) is a rare adverse reaction to CL, in which there is initial reduction in fat volume, followed by abnormal fat growth exceeding the original volume in the treated area. The incidence of PAH is thought to be underreported, and its pathophysiology and management remains unclear. The objective of this study was to present a series of PAH cases and review efficacy of management modalities.

Direct Subscarpal Lipectomy Combined With Liposuction in Abdominoplasty: An Analysis of Safety and Efficacy in 200 Consecutive Patients.

BACKGROUND: Abdominoplasty procedures continue to evolve because combining techniques such as suction-assisted lipectomy or direct subscarpal lipectomy have proven to be powerful adjuncts to achieve optimal aesthetic results. However, concern has been expressed about combining techniques simultaneously given the potential to damage the vascularity of the abdominoplasty flap. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of simultaneous direct subscarpal lipectomy combined with liposuction in abdominoplasty patients. METHODS: A 4-year retrospective review of consecutive abdominoplasties (n = 200) performed by a single surgeon was conducted. Liposuction of the abdominal flap and flanks was performed in all patients. After raising the abdominoplasty flap, undermining was performed to just beyond the xyphoid, the lower rib margins superiorly, and the anterior axillary line laterally. Fat deep to Scarpa's fascia was then removed by direct tangential excision in all zones of the abdominal flap. RESULTS: The patients had a mean age of 42.19 years and BMI of 28.10 kg/m2; the mean follow-up time was 7 months. Seroma occurred in 13 patients (6.5%), superficial wound dehiscence treated with local wound care in 16 patients (8%), hypertrophic scarring in 16 patients (8%), partial umbilical necrosis in 1 patient (0.5%), and partial umbilical epidermolysis in 6 patients (3%). No patients experienced major or minor full-thickness tissue loss. No patients needed reoperation. CONCLUSIONS: Simultaneous direct excision of subscarpal fat with liposuction of the abdomen and flanks does not appear to subject any zone of the abdominoplasty flap to increased risks of vascular compromise. No flap necroses were observed. The technique described is safe and may provide superior abdominoplasty results.

Aesthetic Improvement With Topical Body Skin Treatment as a Complement to Cryolipolysis.

BACKGROUND: A firming and toning cosmetic body lotion (FTB) was developed to target key pathways relevant to body skin health and rejuvenation that may complement the improvements observed after noninvasive body contouring (NIBC). A pilot study explored the efficacy and tolerability of FTB as an adjunct to cryolipolysis. METHODS: An open-label, single-site, single-arm, 12-week study enrolled subjects aged 20 to 65 who had pre-elected to receive 1 or more cryolipolysis treatments (CoolSculpting® or CoolSculpting® Elite; Zeltiq Aesthetics, Inc.) on the inner thigh, back/bra fat, or submental areas. Immediately post-procedure, the investigator applied FTB to the treated area. Subjects then applied FTB topically twice daily for 12 weeks on the treated area. Skin texture and firmness were graded visually by the investigator using a 10-point scale, and subjects graded effectiveness, product attributes, and satisfaction with a questionnaire.  Results: Seventeen subjects (16 women, 1 man) enrolled. After 12 weeks of FTB application, significant improvements in skin firmness were observed in all treated areas, while skin texture showed improvements on the inner thigh and back/bra fat (all P≤0.009). With continued use following cryolipolysis, more than 70% of subjects agreed that FTB improved skin firmness, smoothness, and overall appearance. Subjects indicated that FTB was an effective adjunct to cryolipolysis. Throughout the study, 86% to 92% of subjects reported “fair,” “good,” or “excellent” satisfaction with FTB.  Conclusion: This pilot study suggests that FTB may complement skin improvements seen post-NIBC.J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(4): doi:10.36849/JDD.7917.