Reconstruction of Large Composite Defects Extending Beyond the Nose.

Nasal reconstruction remains one of the most challenging surgeries for facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons. The addition of defects extending beyond the nose adds a layer of complexity to an already technically demanding surgery. This article will focus on the management of composite defects extending beyond the boundaries of the nose. Surgeons need to have a variety of techniques at their disposal. These complex defects often require multiple local flaps, multiple stages, and, in select cases, free tissue transfer.

Gender Affirming Facial Surgery-Anatomy and Procedures for Facial Masculinization.

For some patients, feminine facial features may cause significant gender dysphoria. Multiple nonsurgical and surgical techniques exist to masculinize facial features. Nonsurgical techniques include testosterone supplementation and dermal fillers. Surgical techniques include soft tissue manipulation, synthetic implants, regenerative scaffolding, or bony reconstruction. Many techniques are derived from experience with cisgender patients, but are adapted with special considerations to differing anatomy between cisgender and transgender men and women. Currently, facial masculinization is less commonly sought than feminization, but demand is likely to increase as techniques are refined and made available.

Nonsurgical Rhinoplasty with Hyaluronic Acid.

The history of nonsurgical rhinoplasty with hyaluronic acid fillers dates back to the early 2000s when medical advancements in cosmetic dermatology began exploring less-invasive alternatives to traditional surgical procedures. Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body known for its hydrating and volumizing properties, was being used successfully in other facial augmentation treatments. Around the mid-2000s, the use of hyaluronic acid fillers for nonsurgical rhinoplasty gained momentum. By injecting hyaluronic acid fillers into precise areas of the nose, cosmetic practitioners could effectively smooth out irregularities, correct minor asymmetry, augment the nasal bridge and even enhances nasal tip projection and definition.

Early outcomes and risk factors for complications after facial alloplastic implant surgery: An ACS-NSQIP study.

BACKGROUND: Facial implantology (FI) is a growing field in facial surgery that focuses on harmonizing and balancing facial features. Despite its increasing popularity, larger-scale studies on FI outcomes and risks are scarce. METHODS: The ACS-NSQIP (2008-2021) was queried to identify patients who underwent combined/isolated alloplastic FI surgery of the malar/mandibular region. Based on CPT codes (21125; 21270), procedures were subdivided into combined or isolated FI surgery of the malar or the mandibular region. RESULTS: The study population included 84 patients, of which n = 19 (23%), n = 10 (12%), n = 33 (39%), and n = 22 (26%) underwent combined malar, isolated malar, combined mandibular, and isolated mandibular FI surgery, respectively. Isolated malar (total n = 10) and mandibular FI surgery (total n = 22) patients had relatively high comorbidity rates with up to n = 6 (60%) active smokers and n = 9 (41%) with hypertension, respectively. Combined malar (n = 19) and mandibular FI surgeries (n = 33) had the highest complication rates with n = 3 (16%) and n = 5 (15%) patients experiencing any complications. For both isolated malar and mandibular FI procedures, n = 1 (10% and 4.5%) patient reported any complications. CONCLUSION: In this study, we accessed the ACS-NSQIP database and found alloplastic augmentation for zygoma and mandible to be safe. Patients who underwent combined procedures and mandibular augmentation were more likely to show complications or require inpatient stay. Most alloplastic augmentations of mandible or zygoma were combined with other procedures (62%) which suggests that alloplastic facial implants (in the academic setting) are often used as an adjunct in the treatment of complex craniofacial disorders.

Colgajo nautilus y colgajo en muleta taurina para defectos quirúrgicos faciales periorificiales / Nautilus Flap and Bullfighter Crutch Flap for the Repair of Periorificial Surgical Defects of the Face

Antecedentes La reconstrucción de defectos quirúrgicos en regiones anatómicas próximas a bordes palpebrales, fosas nasales o boca es un reto debido su tendencia a ser deformadas por la tensión del cierre directo o los colgajos cutáneos. El empleo de nuevas técnicas reconstructivas que eviten la retracción de estas zonas sensibles puede suponer un avance importante. Pacientes y métodos Se emplean 2 nuevos diseños, el colgajo nautilus y el colgajo en muleta taurina, para la reconstrucción de defectos quirúrgicos periorificiales, realizando una recolección retrospectiva de los mismos en las zonas periparpebral, perivestibular nasal y peribucal. El colgajo nautilus se empleó en 4 pacientes con defectos periparpebrales y 2 peribucales. El colgajo en muleta taurina se utilizó para la reconstrucción de 14 defectos en ala nasal. Resultados En los 20 pacientes se obtuvieron resultados muy satisfactorios tanto a nivel estético como funcional, sin la aparición de ectropión, colapso del vestíbulo nasal o asimetría de borde labial. No se observó necrosis en ningún caso. Conclusiones Proponemos el colgajo nautilus y el colgajo en muleta taurina como una excelente opción reconstructiva para defectos quirúrgicos localizados en zonas periorificiales (AU)

Background Reconstruction of surgical defects located close to eyelid edges, nostrils, or the mouth is challenging, as tension generated by direct closure or skin flaps in these sensitive regions tends to cause distortion. New repair techniques that prevent retraction may significantly improve outcomes. Patients and methods Retrospective study of the use of 2 novel flap designs—the nautilus flap and the bullfighter crutch flap—to repair surgical defects in the peripalpebral, perivestibular, nasal, and perioral areas. The nautilus flap was used to repair 4 peripalpebral defects and 2 perioral defects, and the bullfighter crutch flap to repair 14 nasal ala defects.Results Cosmetic and functional outcomes were very satisfactory in all 20 patients, with no cases of ectropion, nasal vestibule collapse, or labial asymmetry. Necrosis did not occur in any of the cases. Conclusions The nautilus and bullfighter crutch flaps appear to be excellent choices for reconstructing surgical defects in periorificial areas (AU)

[Translated article] Nautilus Flap and Bullfighter Crutch Flap for the Repair of Periorificial Surgical Defects of the Face / Colgajo nautilus y colgajo en muleta taurina para defectos quirúrgicos faciales periorificiales

Background Reconstruction of surgical defects located close to eyelid edges, nostrils, or the mouth is challenging, as tension generated by direct closure or skin flaps in these sensitive regions tends to cause distortion. New repair techniques that prevent retraction may significantly improve outcomes. Patients and methods Retrospective study of the use of 2 novel flap designs—the nautilus flap and the bullfighter crutch flap—to repair surgical defects in the peripalpebral, perivestibular, nasal, and perioral areas. The nautilus flap was used to repair 4 peripalpebral defects and 2 perioral defects, and the bullfighter crutch flap to repair 14 nasal ala defects.Results Cosmetic and functional outcomes were very satisfactory in all 20 patients, with no cases of ectropion, nasal vestibule collapse, or labial asymmetry. Necrosis did not occur in any of the cases. Conclusions The nautilus and bullfighter crutch flaps appear to be excellent choices for reconstructing surgical defects in periorificial areas (AU)

Antecedentes La reconstrucción de defectos quirúrgicos en regiones anatómicas próximas a bordes palpebrales, fosas nasales o boca es un reto debido su tendencia a ser deformadas por la tensión del cierre directo o los colgajos cutáneos. El empleo de nuevas técnicas reconstructivas que eviten la retracción de estas zonas sensibles puede suponer un avance importante. Pacientes y métodos Se emplean 2 nuevos diseños, el colgajo nautilus y el colgajo en muleta taurina, para la reconstrucción de defectos quirúrgicos periorificiales, realizando una recolección retrospectiva de los mismos en las zonas periparpebral, perivestibular nasal y peribucal. El colgajo nautilus se empleó en 4 pacientes con defectos periparpebrales y 2 peribucales. El colgajo en muleta taurina se utilizó para la reconstrucción de 14 defectos en ala nasal. Resultados En los 20 pacientes se obtuvieron resultados muy satisfactorios tanto a nivel estético como funcional, sin la aparición de ectropión, colapso del vestíbulo nasal o asimetría de borde labial. No se observó necrosis en ningún caso. Conclusiones Proponemos el colgajo nautilus y el colgajo en muleta taurina como una excelente opción reconstructiva para defectos quirúrgicos localizados en zonas periorificiales (AU)

Rotation of a Part of the Composite Flap for Simultaneous Gonion Reduction and Malar Augmentation During Rhytidectomy in Asians.

BACKGROUND: The desired facial shape that Asians aim to achieve through plastic surgery differs from that of westerners. OBJECTIVES: The author facilitates facial volume deflation by using the rotation of a part of the composite flap to the malar area resulting in volumetric augmentation during rhytidectomy; simultaneously, a volumetric reduction was implemented in the gonion. METHODS: Extended deep plane rhytidectomy with the rotation of a part of the composite flap was performed in 49 patients, whereas extended deep plane rhytidectomy without the rotation of a part of the composite flap was performed in 20 patients. For the results, the satisfaction survey of the surgery was conducted in all patients and by 2 surgeons during a follow-up visit 12 months later. To assess the surgical outcome objectively, the author used the Allergan photometric midface volume deficit scale to measure the midface volume. The midface contour and degree of projection were analyzed using lateral view photographs of the patients. The measurement of segment CM (distance between the lateral canthus and mouth corner) and segment MA (distance from segment CM to the most protruding malar area) was performed. RESULTS: The patients who underwent extended deep plane rhytidectomy with the rotation of a part of the composite flap reported higher overall satisfaction and achieved more favorable results, as evaluated by the 2 aesthetic surgeons (P < 0.05). The scores on the Allergan photometric midface volume deficit scale showed a significant increase before and after the surgery in both groups (P < 0.05), also as evaluated by the 2 aesthetic surgeons. However, the change in scores was found to be higher in the extended deep plane rhytidectomy with the rotation of a part of the composite flap group. The midface contour and degree of projection showed an increase of 20.6% on the right face and 22.7% on the left face, respectively (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Using the rotation of a part of the composite flap during rhytidectomy resulted in overall satisfactory outcomes for all patients. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the use of this surgical method is beneficial and effective.

Facial Feminization: Middle Third of the Face.

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) as applied to the midfacial region targets modifications to the nasal and malar esthetic complexes. Although a global assessment is paramount in achieving desired functional results, most patients benefit from malar feminization in the form of bony and soft tissue augmentation, and nasal feminization in the form of reductive rhinoplasty. For patients with signs of aging, additional interventions in the form of rhytidectomy are powerful adjuncts to feminization. As with FFS techniques directed toward the upper and lower thirds, the overarching goal is to obtain complementary outcomes that enhance facial harmony and beauty.

Facial Gender-Affirming Surgery: Pitfalls, Complications, and How to Avoid Them.

Facial feminization is a complex undertaking requiring skill in both craniofacial and aesthetic plastic surgery. As in aesthetic procedures, understanding the patient's goals and setting realistic expectations in light of an individual's anatomy is critical. Both soft tissue and bone must be addressed to adequately soften masculine facial features. This article delves into specific anatomic areas and delineates some of the pathways to successful outcomes.

Feminization Surgery of the Upper Face as the Crucial Factor in Gender Confirmation-Pearls and Pitfalls.

Background: Upper-face feminization is a frequently executed procedure in sexual reassignment surgery, owing to its ability to influence gender identity through adjustments to the hairline, forehead, and peri-orbital area. The procedure includes reducing the hairline, lifting the brows, shaving the orbital region, and applying specific techniques to reduce the frontal bone. This research aims to assess the outcomes, results, and potential complications associated with this surgery among transgender patients. Material and Method: Retrospective review of medical records of 20 patients who attended for facial feminization surgery of the upper face between June 2022 and June 2023, analyzing the previously performed procedures, complications and revision surgery outcomes, and first-time procedures. A literature review was performed for similar studies. Results: 20 patients were included in the study. Among the cohort treated elsewhere (n = 11), the primary complaint was insufficient browbone reduction and anterior frontal sinus table setback. They underwent poorly performed Type 1 reduction when full forehead reconstruction (Type 3/4) was indicated (n = 3), or no reduction was performed during hairline advancement (n = 4). Type 3 forehead reduction with orbital shaving and hairline advancement with simultaneous temporal browlift was most commonly performed in both revision and first-time surgical upper face feminization (n = 15) (75%). Type 1 osteoplasty was performed in four patients (10%), one Type 3 revision surgery was performed after insufficient Type 3 reduction, and one case of shock-induced alopecia was reported, treated with PRP/peptides and a FUE hair graft. Conclusions: The author's preferred technique, 'whole-in-one' upper face feminization by modified bi-coronal incision with frontal trichophytic hyper-beveled incision, provides sufficient insight into the frontal bone and orbital region, the desired forehead osteoplasty and the most efficient insight into the temporal area, enabling safe dissection between fasciae, ligamentous adhesion removal, and periosteal attachment, providing full soft and hard tissue feminization. Nevertheless, feminization procedures should be meticulously planned, and all concerning issues should be addressed during the first surgery in order to prevent revisions, complications, and patient dissatisfaction.

Quantitative Assessment of Periocular Autologous Fat Transfer Survival Using 3D Stereophotogrammetric Imaging.

PURPOSE: To assess periocular autologous fat transfer (AFT) survival by assessment of volume change with sequential 3D VECTRA imaging. OBJECTIVE: Little is known about the patterns of graft survival of AFT in the periorbital region, especially in cases involving prior radiotherapy or trauma. The aim of this pilot study was to characterize fat survival following AFT in patients with a broad range of clinical indications, with and without a history of prior radiotherapy, for both periocular and orbital AFT, and in a subgroup of patients with an anophthalmic socket. METHOD: A single-institution, prospective cohort study involving 18 applications of AFT for volume augmentation in the periocular and orbital area. All patients had sequential 3D VECTRA photographs following a validated standardized protocol. Patient demographics, including gender, age, ethnicity, underlying diagnosis, and volume of fat injected, were also collected. RESULTS: In total 13 patients were enrolled, 9 female (69.2%) and 4 male (31.0%). Mean age at the time of surgery was 47.8 years. Patients had volume deficiency secondary to a variety of causes; the most common cause was postenucleation socket syndrome following trauma in 6 patients (46.2%). The mean fat survival volume at the 1-month postoperative point was 70% and 55% by 6 months. AFT conducted with a multiport cannula for fat harvesting use had an initial higher rate of fat reabsorption with ANOVA p = 0.002, however, this was not observed at the later follow-up periods. There was no statistically significant difference in fat survival between abdominal or thigh donor fat sites. There was no statistically significant difference in residual injected volume at the early follow-up period between patients who had prior radiotherapy and those who did not p = 0.8496. CONCLUSION: AFT is an effective treatment for periorbital volume compromise with an acceptable survival rate in all categories of patients. Complex etiologies such as radiotherapy-related orbital and midface dysgenesis should not be a contraindication for AFT, with no difference in outcomes.

Adipose Component Transplantation: An Advanced Fat-Grafting Strategy for Facial Rejuvenation.

BACKGROUND: Autologous fat grafting is frequently used for volume augmentation and tissue regeneration. The uniform physical and biological characteristics of fat grafts, however, limit their optimal effects in various situations. Subjecting fat tissue to different mechanical processes results in adipose-derived products with distinct biological components and physical features. The present study describes a novel facial fat-grafting strategy, adipose component transplantation (ACT), that yields different adipose products that can be applied to specific injection sites. METHODS: All patients who underwent ACT were evaluated retrospectively. Fat tissue samples were fractionated into high-density fat, adipose matrix complex, stromal vascular fraction gel, and adipose collagen fragment, as described. Each of these fractions was processed and injected into indicated recipient sites. Additional SVF gel was cryopreserved and, if necessary, injected during the following 3 months. Patients were followed up after 1, 2, 3, and 6 months, and annually thereafter. RESULTS: From March of 2020 to September of 2021, 78 patients underwent whole face fat grafting using the ACT strategy. All operations and secondary injections of cryopreserved SVF gel were uneventful. There were no major complications, and final aesthetic results were satisfactory in 91% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: The ACT strategy allows specific adipose products to be applied to specific injection sites, as warranted. Adipose matrix complex is indicated for sufficient rigid support, high-density fat when large volumes are required, SVF gel for precise injection and cryopreservation, and ACF as mesotherapy for skin rejuvenation. The ACT strategy optimizes the biological functions and physical features of different adipose-derived products. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.

Superimposition Study to Determine the Angular Arterial Distribution and Its Clinical Application.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to determine the distribution of the angular artery (AA) in the medial canthal area with the aim of defining an arterial course to prevent AA injury during facial surgery in this region. METHODS: The authors dissected 36 hemifaces of 18 cadavers. The horizontal distance from the vertical level through the medial canthus to the AAs was measured. The AA course of each specimen was then recorded, and all of them were then superimposed to determine the AA course. The diameter and depth of the AA around the medial canthal area were also investigated using ultrasonography on living subjects. RESULTS: The horizontal distances from the medial canthus level and 2 cm below the medial canthus were 9.0 ± 2.0 mm (mean ± SD) and 1.9 ± 2.4 mm, respectively. The superimposed image demonstrated that most of the AAs were present inside the vertical line through the medial canthus. Ultrasonography indicated that the AA was 2.3 ± 0.9 mm below the skin and 1.7 ± 0.3 mm in diameter. CONCLUSIONS: The AA course was relatively constant along the nasojugal fold. The AAs were most often present between the middle of the medial canthus and the facial midline, but were very scarce in both the medial and lateral thirds. Knowledge of the detailed course of the AA may help surgeons to avoid arterial injury and decrease the risk of surgical morbidities around the nasal root and medial canthal area.

Technical Precision with Autologous Fat Grafting for Facial Rejuvenation: A Review of the Evolving Science.

SUMMARY: The scientific study of facial aging has transformed modern facial rejuvenation. As people age, fat loss in specific fat compartments is a major contributor to structural aging of the face. Autologous fat grafting is safe, abundant, readily available, and completely biocompatible, which makes it the preferred soft-tissue filler in the correction of facial atrophy. The addition of volume through fat grafting gives an aging face a more youthful, healthy, and aesthetic appearance. Harvesting and preparation with different cannula sizes and filter-cartridge techniques have allowed for fat grafts to be divided based on parcel size and cell type into three major subtypes: macrofat, microfat, and nanofat. Macrofat and microfat have the benefit of providing volume to restore areas of facial deflation and atrophy in addition to improving skin quality; nanofat has been shown to improve skin texture and pigmentation. In this article, the authors discuss the current opinions regarding fat grafting and how the evolving science of fat grafting has led to the clinical utility of each type of fat to optimize facial rejuvenation. The opportunity exists to individualize the use of autologous fat grafting with the various subtypes of fat for the targeted correction of aging in different anatomic areas of the face. Fat grafting has become a powerful tool that has revolutionized facial rejuvenation, and developing precise, individualized plans for autologous fat grafting for each patient is an important advancement in the evolution of facial rejuvenation.