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Laser-assisted liposuction using 1470-nm radial fiber emits light energy preferentially absorbed by water, yielding a rapid and localized contouring and tightening effect, with minimal scarring. When collected under appropriate conditions, extracted fat samples can be exploited as autologous filling material in liposculpturing procedures.To assess the 6-month contouring efficacy of 1470 radial fiber-assisted liposuction and the volumetric enhancement effect of the harvested tissue in facial fat grafting.Twenty subjects underwent liposuction (BeautiFill, Alma Lasers, Inc.) of lower abdominal or outer thigh fat. In seven subjects, harvested samples were grafted into facial regions. Treatment safety, body weight, blinded evaluator-assessed aesthetic improvements, and subject-rated satisfaction were monitored for 6 months. Abdominal and facial fat thickness were assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (n = 5) within 3 months of treatment.One-month posttreatment, most subjects ranked improvements good/excellent (88%) and skin tightening satisfactory/very satisfactory (92%), with70% of subjects providing similar scores 6-month posttreatment. Blinded evaluators noted improved/very much improved aesthetic appearance (87%). Harvested tissue injected as a facial filler (21.0 ± 5.2 ml) led to a 0.63 ± 0.12 mm increase in facial fat thickness, observed by MRI, within 3 months. Six months postfilling, the majority of subjects (83%) were satisfied with the outcome. All procedures were well-tolerated.A single 1470 nm radial fiber-assisted abdominal and thigh liposuction session provided for effective and durable reduction of adipose tissue deposits, with appreciable skin tightening and aesthetic improvements. The gentle harvesting method yielded viable filler material, which was well-retained in facial regions for up to 6 months.

BACKGROUND The rapid evolution of the social media platform has had a major effect on the field of medicine. OBJECTIVE To identify patterns, trends and patients' concerns before and after aesthetic surgeries involving breast implants, by analyzing social media posts. METHODS We examined comments posted on popular Israeli online public forums between January 2019 and May 2021, regarding: breast augmentation, mastopexy-augmentation and breast implant removal. RESULTS During the study period, 561 comments were posted on the three forums investigated: 165 pre-operative and 396 post-operative. In the pre-operative period, the main interests were implant size, type and location, as discussed in 69 posts (42%). During the first two months post-operative, questions reflected concerns regarding post-operative instructions, wound management and asymmetry: 76 (43%), 59 (34%) and 27 (16%), respectively. These topics continued to be in focus up to one year post-operative. Beyond the first post-operative year, patients' main interests were breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (25 posts, 28%), capsule formation (23 posts, 26%) and systemic effects (23 posts, 26%). CONCLUSIONS Social media harnessing to identify patterns, trends and patient concerns pre- and post-aesthetic breast surgeries is a novel approach. Misinformation was common, particularly in comments posted more than one year post-operative. Four topics that especially concerned patients in the immediate and late post-operative period were asymmetric results, breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma, capsule removal and systemic effects. We advise surgeon and plastic surgeon societies to issue position papers on controversial subjects, to counter the dissemination of potentially misleading information. 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.

Background The common recommendation for female abdominoplasty candidates is to conclude family planning before undergoing the procedure. However, no evidence demonstrates a correlation between aesthetic outcome compromise, risk for fetal complications, or risk for maternal complications when abdominoplasty is followed by pregnancy. Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate maternal, fetal, and aesthetic outcomes among pregnant females with a history of abdominoplasty. Methods The authors conducted an online survey among women who became pregnant after having an abdominoplasty. Participants were recruited via social media groups related to abdominoplasty. The survey included demographic-, aesthetic outcome-, and pregnancy-related questions utilizing a score from 1 (no effect) to 10 (worst effect) to assess abdominal aesthetic outcome compromise. Results Thirty-two participants completed the online survey, 15 (46.8%) of which reported their pregnancy was unplanned. Pregnancy-related findings included 5 (15.6%) late premature births (between gestational week 35 and 37), 1 miscarriage, and 1 emergency C-section. Compromised aesthetic outcomes following pregnancy included new abdominal stretch marks (50%, N = 16), widened abdominoplasty scar (28%, N = 9), abdominal skin excess (37.5%, N = 12), and abdominal bulge (25.8%, N = 8). A new hernia was reported by 2 participants (6.3%). The average abdominal aesthetic severity score was 2.7 (range, 1-8), and only 3 scores were above 5 (9.3%). Two women (6.2%) underwent abdominoplasty revision, and 18 (56.2%) stated they would recommend others to undergo abdominoplasty before pregnancy (56.3%). Conclusions This survey shows there is room to reevaluate whether future pregnancy should be considered a relative contraindication for undergoing abdominoplasty. Level of Evidence: 4

Breast augmentation with implants is a popular cosmetic procedure which has been performed for nearly six decades. As the number of breast augmentation procedures continually rises, we increasingly encounter breast cancer patients who have silicone implants. A significant portion of these patients includes candidates suited for lumpectomy. In these cases, a major concern is the potential exposure of the implant during lumpectomy while an additional consideration is the need to replace the implants due to their age or condition. The purpose of this study is to present an original surgical approach to patients with breast implants requiring breast conservative resection due to breast carcinoma. Over the course of 10 years, breast-augmented candidates for a lumpectomy who underwent a technique that combines lumpectomy with the replacement of the old implant through an incision from the previous scar in the inframammary fold (IMF) were reviewed. With this approach, after removal of the implant through the IMF incision, the tumor is resected with appropriate surgical margins from inside the implant pocket, leaving the overlying skin intact. Data on demographic characteristics, implants, oncologic information, intraoperative surgical findings, and complication were collected. The implant information included brand, size, age, plan of dissection, and condition of the implant as assessed preoperatively. Oncologic information included tumor type, number of tumors, size, and location. Surgical information included the size of the tissue excised, condition of the implant removed, as well as characteristics of the new implants, plane of augmentation, and intraoperative and postoperative complications. All breast specimens were marked and weighed, and the patients were followed-up postoperatively for at least 6 months by the plastic and breast surgeons and by the oncologists. This technique has been employed in 21 patients with previous breast augmentation and a recent diagnosis of breast carcinoma. The average implant age was 13.3 years. The average tumor size was 2.1 cm × 2.8 cm. All patients had clear surgical margins. No significant complications were reported. This technique enables the performing of a lumpectomy procedure without adding additional scars to the breast, the exchange of the implant in a simultaneous procedure, and the decrease of the risk of implant exposure due to additional scars on the breast parenchyma. It minimizes postoperative complications and provides excellent results both therapeutically and aesthetically.

BACKGROUND Restoration of an esthetic neck contour is an integral component of facial rejuvenation. The corset platysmaplasty and the suture suspension neck lift were introduced by Feldman in 1990 and by Giampapa in 1995, respectively. Both techniques are routinely used in current practice with satisfactory and long-lasting results. However, some patients who have undergone the suture suspension platysmaplasty report long-term discomfort, excessive neck tightening, and recurrence of deformity. OBJECTIVE To achieve an improvement in the Cervicomental (CM) angle and other parameters in patients with a difficult neck and to reduce the probability of long-term discomfort, excessive neck tightening, and a recurrence of deformity. The author developed a new technique that includes a very wide suture suspension with no interlocking. We hereby present a revised suture suspension technique-The Wide Suture Suspension Platysmaplasty. METHODS Between the years 2015 and 2017, the senior author performed 286 face and neck rejuvenation surgeries with or without blepharoplasty. Of these cases, 35 patients with a heavy neck were chosen for the new Wide Suture Suspension Technique. This was a single surgeon retrospective cohort study. Patients were photographed in a lateral view preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Pre- and postoperative photographs were compared in four measured parameters: the cervicomental angle, the jowl angle, the horizontal distance between the mentum and the cervicomental angle and the vertical distance between the mentum and the cervicomental angle. RESULTS The Wide Suture Suspension Platysmaplasty resulted in pleasing esthetics, with minimal complications in patients with difficult necks. The cervicomental angle decreased by 42° (P

Breast implant illness (BII) is a rising concern among many patients. Although not fully understood, a connection between silicone breast implants and systemic diseases may be present. This connection may influence the types of breast surgeries performed.To evaluate changing trends in breast surgeries in Israel over time, with regard to implantation, explantation, and implant exchange surgeries.In this ecological study, we presented data from four private medical centers in Israel regarding the number of breast implant surgeries performed in the years 2018-2019. Data were collected bi-yearly. The types of surgeries included breast implantation, explantation, and breast implant exchange.When we summed and compared the yearly data, we saw that the number of implantations in 2018 was 2267 (80.1% of breast implant procedures that year), and 1929 (68.9%) in 2019. The number of implant exchanges in 2018 and 2019 was 482 (17.0%) and 608 (21.7%), respectively. In 2018, 80 (2.8%) explantations were performed and 262 (9.4%) in 2019.There appears to be a trend in the rise of implant removal surgeries in addition to a decrease in breast implantations. One possible reason may be patient concerns of BII. Another reason may be the increased public interest and discussion about systemic effects of breast implants. More research is needed in this field to achieve better understanding of the phenomenon, the reasons behind it, and the possible solutions and ways of treatment.

BACKGROUND The anterior aspect of the auricle is a complex 3-dimensional structure. Each anatomical component in this region has an essential role in the aesthetic appearance of the ear and face. The reconstruction of defects in this region is challenging because of the lack of mobile, excess skin for primary closure, and the inability to skin graft overexposed cartilage. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to present the planning and surgical technique of a simple, reproducible, 1-stage flap, for the reconstruction of the anterior aspect of the auricle. PATIENTS AND METHODS A series of 11 patients, who underwent reconstruction of the anterior aspect of the auricle with 1-stage, inferiorly based, preauricular, cutaneous flap. All reconstructions were conducted under local anesthesia, and the defects were mainly due to tumor resections or skin necrosis after otoplasty. The average defect size was 1.5 cm. The flap was applied to different sites of the anterior auricle. RESULTS All flaps survived except one, where there was partial flap loss. The aesthetic results were excellent, with no auricular deformity. CONCLUSIONS The inferiorly based, preauricular flap is a versatile flap for a safe, simple, and reproducible, 1-stage reconstruction for almost every region of anterior ear defect, with excellent aesthetic results.

Breast augmentation is one of the most common aesthetic procedures performed worldwide. One of the worst associated complications is implant rupture, a topic that will be addressed in the present study. The risk of developing silicone gel breast implant rupture following breast augmentation is associated with multiple factors, including: older generation implant, increased implant age, implant type, specific manufacturer, severe capsular contracture (Baker grade III or IV), and the presence of local symptoms. We hypothesize that the plane of the implant placement may also play a role in the development of implant rupture due to differences in opposing forces upon the implant between submuscular and subglandular planes.To assess the effect of potential risk factors on breast prosthesis rupture rate, focusing on implant pocket selection, capsular contracture and implant volume.A retrospective cohort study was performed on patients with silicone breast implants in either subglandular or submuscular plane, who underwent an elective breast implant exchange, with or without mastopexy, between January 2012 and June 2017. Data collected included patient's age, implant age, implant pocket, implant volume, capsular contracture grade, and implant status (ruptured or intact).Data was collected on 362 women (700 breasts). A total of 284 women (542 breasts) met the inclusion criteria. The average age of the subjects was 43.4 ± 10.4 years. Average implant age during exchange was 10 ± 6.1. There was no difference between the characteristics of the submuscular group and the subglandular group, except from patient age. In a univariant analysis, patient's age (46.4 vs. 41.8, p 0.001) and implant age (12.2 vs. 8.92 years, p 0.001) were associated with significantly higher rupture rate. Among ruptured implants, the relative proportion of submuscular to subglandular implants was 64%, compared to 48% among non-ruptured implants (p 0.0001). When controlling for potential confounders, submuscular pocket (OR = 0.1835, CI95% 1.25-2.69, p = 0.002) as well as implant size (OR = 1.004, CI95% 1.001-1.007, p = 0.005) were found to be a risk factor for implant rupture.A sub-muscular implant pocket was identified as a significant risk factor for implant rupture. The prevailing theory that larger size implant carries an increased risk of complications, is also reinforced in this study. Large prospective studies are needed to further clarify risk factors for implant rupture.

Background Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries performed worldwide. In turn, there has been an increasing number of secondary breast augmentation procedures in recent years. Implant selection at secondary breast augmentation can be a challenge and is affected by a number of factors. The aim of this study was to assess the main factors affecting the decision-making process with regard to implant volume determination prior to implant exchange. Methods Women who underwent elective breast implant exchange between 2012 and 2016 were included in this study. Medical records were used to acquire implant and patient data. The patient's desires, as well as medical considerations, were taken into account during the implant selection process. Results Two hundred forty-five women with an average age of 43 years (range, 21-69 years) were included in the study. The mean time between primary augmentation and implant exchange was 10 ± 5.7 years. Overall, 192 implants (38.9%) were exchanged with larger implants, 84 implants (17%) were exchanged with smaller implants, and 218 implants (44.1%) were exchanged with implants similar to the preoperative size (±25 mL). In patients who received smaller implants, the mean reduction in implant volume was found to be 78.88 mL. Women were more likely to receive a smaller implant during implant exchange if the preoperative implant volume was larger than 367 mL (P = 0.00006). Among patients who received larger implants, no correlation was found between preoperative and postoperative implant size. A positive correlation was found between the implant age and a reduction in implant size (P = 0.036). However, no correlation was found between the patient's age and the decision to reduce or enlarge implant size upon revision. Conclusions Almost half of patients receive similarly sized implants during elective implant exchange. Among those who did decide to change their implant size, more than twice as many patients opted for a larger implant as opposed to a smaller one. Relatively large preoperative implant size and longer time since primary augmentation were associated with the selection of smaller implants during exchange. Further studies should be conducted to reinforce these results.

Rationale and Objectives Gynecomastia is the benign enlargement of the male breast because of proliferation of the glandular component. To date, there is no radiological definition of gynecomastia and no quantitative evaluation of breast glandular tissues in the general male population. The aims of this study were to supply radiological-based measurements of breast glandular tissue in the general male population, to quantitatively assess the prevalence of gynecomastia according to age by decades, and to evaluate associations between gynecomastia and obesity, cirrhosis, and dialysis. Materials and Methods This retrospective study included 506 men who presented to the emergency department following trauma and underwent chest-abdominal computed tomography. Also included were 45 patients undergoing hemodialysis and 50 patients with cirrhosis who underwent chest computed tomography. The incidence and size of gynecomastia for all the study population were calculated. Results Breast tissue diameters of 22 mm, 28 mm, and 36 mm corresponded to 90th, 95th, and 97.5th cumulative percentiles of diameters in the general male population. Peaks of gynecomastia were shown in the ninth decade and in boys aged 13–14 years. Breast tissue diameter did not correlate with body mass index (r = −0.031). Patients undergoing hemodialysis and patients with cirrhosis had higher percentages (P Conclusions Breast tissue diameter is a simple and reliable quantitative tool for the assessment of gynecomastia. This method provides the ability to determine the incidence of gynecomastia by age in the general population. Radiological gynecomastia should be defined as 22 mm, 28 mm, or 36 mm (90th, 95th, and 97.5th percentiles, respectively). Radiological gynecomastia is not associated with obesity, but is associated with cirrhosis and dialysis.

Phenol chemical peeling (PCP) treatment is associated with prolonged recovery and sustained adverse events. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is known to accelerate wound healing. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effect of HBOT on PCP recovery period and adverse events.This is a pilot randomized controlled clinical study. Women following PCP underwent 5 consecutive daily HBOT sessions, compared with PCP alone. Pain, pruritus, erythema, crusting, scaling, and edema were daily evaluated up to 28 days following PCP. Photographs taken on days 14 and 35 following PCP were assessed. Confidence to appear in public was assessed 14 days following PCP.Eight participants equally assigned to HBOT and control groups. Lower severity scores for erythema, scaling, and pruritus were documented in the HBOT group (mean difference 1.19,Hyperbaric oxygen therapy following PCP is associated with faster recovery as assessed by both patients and caregivers. So far, HBOT was mainly used in the treatment of problematic or chronic wounds. Our study suggests expanding the indications in which hyperbaric oxygen treatment is applicable and recommended.Le traitement par exfoliation chimique au phénol (ECP) s’associe à une convalescence prolongée et à des événements indésirables soutenus. On sait que l’oxygénothérapie hyperbare (OTHB) accélère la guérison des plaies. La présente étude vise à évaluer l’effet de l’OTHB sur la convalescence et les effets indésirables après une ECP.Dans le cadre du présent projet pilote clinique aléatoire et contrôlé, des femmes ont suivi cinq séances d’OTHB quotidiennes consécutives auprès une ECP, par rapport à l’ECP seule. Les chercheurs ont évalué la douleur, le prurit, l’érythème, la formation de croûtes, la desquamation et l’œdème tous les jours jusqu’à 28 jours après l’ECP. Ils ont évalué les photos prises les jours 14 et 35 après l’ECP ainsi que la confiance à être vus en public 14 jours après l’ECP.Huit participants participantes ont été réparties également entre l’OTHB et des groupes témoins. Le groupe d’OTHB présentait des scores de gravité plus faibles pour ce qui est de l’érythème, de la desquamation et du prurit (différence moyenne 1,19,Selon l’évaluation des patientes et des soignants, l’OTHB s’associe à une convalescence plus rapide après l’ECP. Jusqu’à maintenant, l’OTHB était surtout utilisée pour traiter des plaies problématiques ou chroniques. D’après la présente étude, il est possible d’élargir les indications pour lesquelles l’OTHB est applicable et recommandée.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text., Background: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can improve wound healing and has been found to have positive preconditioning effects in animal models. Among esthetic surgical procedures, abdominoplasty poses the highest rate of postoperative complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of preoperative HBOT as a preconditioning treatment for expected postsurgical complications. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study among patients who underwent abdominoplasty at our institute and private practice between January 2012 and November 2017. Patients who received preoperative HBOT were compared with patients who did not receive HBOT. Surgical complication data and demographic, preoperative and postoperative data from patient records were collected. Results: The study included 356 patients. Of them, 83 underwent HBOT preoperatively. Using preoperative HBOT, postoperative complications were significantly reduced from 32.6% (89 patients) to 8.4% (7 patients), P

Chronic ulcers pose a significant health concern and economic burden. Numerous products, including animal-derived collagen products, have been designed to provide the injured site with a biocompatible structural matrix that promotes tissue regeneration. Yet, animal-derived collagens can evoke immune responses, bear risk of disease transmission, and fail to closely mimic the function of native collagen.This study aims to assess the safety and performance of a novel flowable wound matrix, formulated from tobacco plant-purified fibrillated recombinant human type I collagen (rhCollagen), in patients with chronic lower limb ulcers.This single-arm, open-label, multicenter trial took place at 5 treatment centers. Wounds were photographed and preliminary surgical debridement was performed prior to rhCollagen application. Patients received a single application of rhCollagen to the wound bed, followed by weekly assessments of the wound.Twenty patients (mean age, 63 years), presenting with a chronic ulcer of neuropathic (45%), posttraumatic (35%), postoperative (10%), and venous (10%) origin, underwent rhCollagen treatment. Initial wound area ranged between 0.2 cm3 to 9.2 cm3. At 4-weeks posttreatment, median wound area reduction was 94%. Fifteen ulcers exhibited ≥ 70% wound closure, 9 of which achieved complete closure. Only 1 participant suffered a local self-resolving wound infection. No significant device-related adverse events were reported throughout the study.A single, easy-to-use rhCollagen flowable gel application for chronic lower limb ulcers may promote wound closure with minimal adverse events.

Summary Background Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) surgery is the safest yet least effective method for massive weight loss. Thirty to 50 percent of patients undergoing LAGB will regain part of their lost weight. Objective To evaluate the effect of body contouring plastic surgery (BCPS) following LAGB on long-term body mass index (BMI) control. Setting Department of Surgery A, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel. Methods A retrospective cohort study of patients aged 18–50 years, who underwent LAGB surgery between 1997 and 2007, was performed. Out of 2405 patients undergoing LAGB during those years, 861 were excluded and 1544 were recruited by phone. The final group included 72 patients matched for age and gender. Long-term weight regain was evaluated and compared between a group of patients who underwent subsequent body contouring plastic surgery (LBCPS) and a group of LAGB only (LAGBO). Groups were matched for age, gender, and pre-operative body mass index (BMI). Results LBCPS ( n = 18) had lower endpoint BMI and BMI regain percentage compared with LAGBO ( n = 54) (24.64 ± 3.76 vs. 31.0 ± 7.2 kg/m 2 , p p 2 (HR = 0.19, p = 0.025; HR = 0.13, p = 0.046, respectively). Conclusion When compared with patients who did not undergo BCPS following LAGB, patients who underwent BCPS following LAGB had improved long-term BMI control.

Background Acellular dermal matrices (ADMs) are commonly used to support implant-based breast reconstruction. However, there is little comparative data on the incorporation process of different ADMs, and the value of meshing or fenestration versus solid sheet has not been established, although early clinical data suggest seroma rates may be reduced. This was a preclinical assessment of the incorporation process at optimal conditions in a pig model. Methods SurgiMend and AlloDerm matrices were implanted in subcutaneous pockets on the backs of 15-week-old female pigs. Half of the samples were meshed 1:2.5; the remainder was grafted as a fenestrated (SurgiMend) or solid sheet (AlloDerm). Tissues were harvested at 3 months. Histological slides were prepared for hematoxylin and eosin staining, and Masson trichrome and immunostaining with anticollagen type I fluorescein isothiocyanate stain. Histological parameters (inflammation, giant cell reaction, neovascularization, fibroplasias, and scar tissue formation) were graded blindly on a scale of 0 (no reaction) to 3 (severe reaction). Results All explanted ADMs (SurgiMend, n = 23; AlloDerm, n = 20) were firmly incorporated within the host tissue. SurgiMend showed more fibroplasia (P = 0.029) compared with AlloDerm in meshed or solid sheet form. Meshed ADMs showed a trend toward increased inflammation (P = 0.074) and giant cell reaction (P = 0.053) compared with solid sheet/fenestrated ADM. Conclusions Meshing ADM may allow cells to populate matrices more rapidly, promoting integration compared with solid sheet ADMs. This study sets the histological basis for further clinical investigations, with the aim of demonstrating lower complication rates (and particularly reduced seroma formation) with meshed ADMs.

Despite incremental improvements in the field of tissue engineering, no technology is currently available for producing completely autologous implants where both the cells and the scaffolding material are generated from the patient, and thus do not provoke an immune response that may lead to implant rejection. Here, a new approach is introduced to efficiently engineer any tissue type, which its differentiation cues are known, from one small tissue biopsy. Pieces of omental tissues are extracted from patients and, while the cells are reprogrammed to become induced pluripotent stem cells, the extracellular matrix is processed into an immunologically matching, thermoresponsive hydrogel. Efficient cell differentiation within a large 3D hydrogel is reported, and, as a proof of concept, the generation of functional cardiac, cortical, spinal cord, and adipogenic tissue implants is demonstrated. This versatile bioengineering approach may assist to regenerate any tissue and organ with a minimal risk for immune rejection.

Improvement of lung function following reduction mammoplasty has been previously reported among adult populations in the medical literature.To evaluate the intraoperative dynamics of pulmonary function in adolescents undergoing reduction mammoplasty.The present study is a prospective case series of female patients 13 to 18 years of age who underwent inferior pedicle reduction mammoplasty between November 20, 2006 and April 4, 2011. Documented variables included patient baseline characteristics, operation duration, muscle relaxant use and total breast tissue removed. Intraoperative pulmonary function data documented included: tidal volume, respiratory rate, peak inspiratory pressure, positive end-expiratory pressure, oxygen saturation percentage and pulmonary compliance. Differences in pulmonary function data were calculated as ratio between final and initial intraoperative values.Twenty-six patients were included in the analysis. Mean (± SD) age was 16.9±1.1 years and mean body mass index was 28.9±6.1 kg/m(2). Mean operation time was 218±52 min, with average total bilateral breast tissue removal of 1810±1065 g. Improvement in lung compliance was observed in 24 patients (92.3%; P0.0001). Mean intraoperative lung compliance improvement was 23.92% (95% CI 8.3% to 37%; P=0.001).Intraoperative improvement in lung compliance was observed in adolescent patients undergoing reduction mammoplasty.Les publications médicales ont déjà fait état d’une amélioration de la fonction pulmonaire au sein de la population adulte après une mammoplastie de réduction.Évaluer la dynamique peropératoire de la fonction pulmonaire chez des adolescentes qui subissent une mammoplastie de réduction.Les chercheurs ont étudié la présente série de cas prospectifs de patientes de 13 à 18 ans qui ont subi une mammoplastie de réduction du pédicule inférieur entre le 20 novembre 2006 et le 4 avril 2011. Les variables observées incluaient les caractéristiques initiales des patientes, la durée de l’opération, l’utilisation de relaxants musculaires et la quantité totale de tissus mammaires extraits. Les données sur la fonction pulmonaire peropératoire observées incluaient le volume respiratoire, la fréquence respiratoire, la pression inspiratoire de pointe, la pression positive en fin d’expiration, le pourcentage de saturation en oxygène et la compliance pulmonaire. Les chercheurs ont calculé les différences dans les données sur la fonction pulmonaire entre les valeurs peropératoires finales et initiales.Vingt-six patientes ont participé à l’analyse. Elles avaient un âge moyen (± ÉT) de 16,9±1,1 ans et un indice de masse corporelle moyen de 28,9±6,1 kg/mOn observe une amélioration peropératoire de la compliance pulmonaire chez les adolescentes qui subissent une mammoplastie de réduction.

Improvements in surgical technique over the last decade enable surgeons to perform extensive resection and reconstruction in patients presenting with tumors involving the soft tissue or bony structures of the chest wall. The type of surgical resection and its size, depend on the type of tumor resected and its location. In addition to providing a better esthetic result, the reconstruction restores support and functionality of the thoracic cage. The approach to chest wall repair includes primary closure or reconstruction by using transposition flaps, free flaps, prosthetic material, or a mixture of a flap and prosthetic material.

Augmentation mammoplasty is one of the most common esthetic procedures worldwide. A wide range of motivations leads women to undergo this procedure, among them socioeconomic status and age group. The aim of this study was to identify the motivation spectrum for augmentation mammoplasty through different age groups. We conducted a cross-sectional prospective survey given to Israeli women seeking augmentation mammoplasty consults in a hospital and private clinic settings, using a 17-item Motivation for Augmentation questionnaire. Three motivation domains were examined: appearance, sexuality and social. Study participants were divided into three age groups: 18–29, 30–39 and over 40 years. A total of 101 women participated in the study. Motivations were rated similar among all age groups. Appearance and sexuality domains were rated significantly higher compared with the social domain throughout all age groups (3.28 ± 0.91 and 3.15 ± 1.03 vs. 1.88 ± 1.16, p

BACKGROUND Silicone breast implants from the French manufacturer Poly Implants Prosthese (PIP) were recalled from the European market after the French regulator has revealed the implants contain non-medical-grade silicone filler. In December 2011, following a large increase in reported rupture rate and a possible cancer risk, the French Ministry of Health recommended consideration of the PIP explantation, regardless of their condition. In 2012, the Israel Ministry of Health recommended to replace the implants only upon suspected implant rupture. OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to characterize breast-augmented Israeli patients with PIP implants, compare their outcomes with those of breast-augmented patients with different implant types, and review the current PIP literature. METHODS Breast-augmented patients who underwent an elective breast implant exchange in Israel between January 2011 and January 2017 were included in the study. Data were collected from electronic and physical medical files. RESULTS There were 73 breast-augmented female patients with 146 PIP breast implants included in this study. Average implant age was 6.7 ± 2.79 years. Mean implant size was 342.8 ± 52.9 mL. Fourteen women (19 implants [16%]) had a high-grade capsular contracture (Baker grade 3-4). During exchange, 28 implants were found to be ruptured (19.2%). CONCLUSIONS Less than 10 years following breast augmentation, PIP implants demonstrated higher rupture rate compared with other implants. Our data are comparable to overall available rupture rate. Among patients with definitive rupture diagnosis, an elective implant removal should be recommended. In cases of undamaged implants, plastic surgeons should also seriously consider PIP implant explantation. When the patient does not desire to remove the implant, an annual physical examination and breast ultrasound are recommended, beginning a year after augmentation.

Background The principle of dynamic muscular activity affecting eyebrow height and shape is well known. We postulate that similarly, dynamics of the fronto-galea-occipital muscles affect forehead height. Objectives To present a forehead lift technique using Botulinum toxin injection and evaluate its clinical efficacy and safety. Methods Twenty-nine female patients comprised the study group. Forty units of prepared abobutolinumtoxinA (Dysport, 10 U/0.05 mL) were injected into 4 points in the hair-bearing scalp, simulating the points of frontalis origin. The glabella and forehead regions were treated with 50 U each. Standard photographs and measurements were taken before and at 2 weeks following treatment. Forehead height was measured bilaterally drawing a vertical line from mid-pupil to frontal hairline (MPFH) and from medial canthus to frontal hairline (MCFH). We assessed outcome differences in patients with low vs high forehead (cutoff value 5.5 cm forehead height). Results Mean age was 48 years (range, 29-66 years). Two weeks following treatment, mean frontal height had increased significantly in all measurement points (MCFH right: 4.1 ± 1.8 mm, MCFH left 4.4 ± 1.8 mm, MPFH right 4.4 ± 2.0 mm, MPFH left 4.7 ± 2.3 mm; P

Summary Background Massive weight loss (MWL) patients who undergo body contouring plastic surgery (BCPS) display superior long-term weight maintenance. The effect of the number of anatomical areas contoured on weight dynamics is undetermined. Objectives To determine whether body mass index (BMI) dynamics following BCPS are associated with the number of anatomical areas operated. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Study groups were defined by the number of anatomical areas operated (1, 2, and 3+). BMI velocity was defined as a ratio between BMI change following BCPS and follow-up time. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to assess the independent association with BMI velocity. Results A total of 222 patients undergoing 513 BCPSs between 2009 and 2014 were included in the study (mean age 36.8 ± 10.9 years, 77% females). Group 3+ ( n = 88) had a negative mean BMI velocity compared with positive values in Groups 1 and 2 (−0.11 ± 1.0 vs. 0.44 ± 1.4 and 0.03 ± 1.2, respectively; p = 0.03). Independent risk factors for positive BMI velocity (>0.5 kg/m 2 /year) included single anatomical area BCPS compared to three or more (OR = 3.37; CI 95% 1.24–9.14; p = 0.017) and psychiatric medication use (OR = 6.73; CI 95% 1.15–39.35; p = 0.034). Independent protective factors included diabetes mellitus (OR = 0.094; CI 95% 0.01–0.99; p = 0.049). Conclusions BCPS in three or more anatomical areas following MWL is associated with a long-term weight loss following BCPS. As part of the health strategy to maintain normal BMI values and achieve overall quality of life improvement in MWL patients, clinicians and health policy makers should positively consider recommending BCPS in multiple anatomical areas.

Surgical site infection (SSI) following esthetic breast implant exchange occurs in up to 2% of procedures. The effect of suction drains on SSI risk in these cases remains controversial. This study aimed to assess the SSI risk in the presence of suction drains after esthetic exchange of breast implants.This is a retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing esthetic breast implant exchange between 2012 and 2015. SSI was determined according to the definition of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Multivariate analysis using a logistic regression model to identify independent risk factors for SSI was performed.A total of 256 women (504 breasts) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. The mean age was 44 ± 11 years. The mean operative time was 93 ± 40 min. The mean implant age at the time of the exchange was 10.3 ± 6.5 years. Suction drains were used in 229 breasts (45.4%) and were removed after 6 ± 7 days. Twenty (4%) breasts were diagnosed with SSI, of which 17 had suction drains. Suction drain use and days until drain removal were associated with a higher risk of SSI (85.0% vs. 43.8%, p 0.001; 6.97 days vs. 12.07 days, p 0.001, respectively). The use of suction drains remained an independent risk factor for SSI after adjustment for age, smoking, and previous capsular contracture (OR = 10.66, CI 95% 2.42-46.82).Suction drain use in esthetic breast implant exchange is associated with an increased risk of SSI. Surgeons should carefully consider using suction drains in selected cases only.

Background Adolescent breast hypertrophy can have long-term negative medical and psychological impacts. In select patients, breast reduction surgery is the best treatment. Unfortunately, many in the general and medical communities hold certain misconceptions regarding the indications and timing of this procedure. Several etiologies of adolescent breast hypertrophy, including juvenile gigantomastia, adolescent macromastia, and obesity-related breast hypertrophy, complicate the issue. It is our hope that this paper will clarify these misconceptions through a combined retrospective and literature review. Methods A retrospective review was conducted looking at adolescent females (≤18 years old) who had undergone bilateral breast reduction surgery. Their preoperative comorbidities, BMI, reduction volume, postoperative complications, and subjective satisfaction were recorded. In addition, a literature review was completed. Results 34 patients underwent bilateral breast reduction surgery. The average BMI was 29.5 kg/m2. The average volume resected during bilateral breast reductions was 1820.9 g. Postoperative complications include dehiscence (9%), infection (3%), and poor scarring (6%). There were no cases of recurrence or need for repeat operation. Self-reported patient satisfaction was 97%. All patients described significant improvements in self body-image and participation in social activities. The literature review yielded 25 relevant reported articles, 24 of which are case studies. Conclusion Reduction mammaplasty is safe and effective. It is the preferred treatment method for breast hypertrophy in the adolescent female and may be the only way to alleviate the increased social, psychological, and physical strain caused by this condition.

Past studies found insurance status, race, comorbidities and hospital setting influence the likelihood and timing of post-mastectomy breast reconstruction (BR). We evaluated these factors at a public hospital serving a predominantly minority and uninsured population.Women who underwent mastectomy and/or BR from 2005 to 2011 were reviewed. The association between patients' characteristics and receipt of BR and timing (immediate BR vs. delayed BR) were analyzed. The 5-year overall BR rate was estimated with the Kaplan-Meier method.The analysis included 387 patients. 130 received BR. 85 (65%) received immediate BR and 25 (19%) underwent microsurgical repair. The total complication rate was 25%. The 5 yr overall BR rate was 43% (95% CI: 36%-51%). Univariate factors positively associated with overall BR included younger age, non-smoker, lower BMI, no comorbidities, no neoadjuvant chemotherapy requirement, lower AJCC stage and negative lymph nodes. Younger age, no comorbidities, neoadjuvant chemotherapy, higher AJCC stage, and positive lymph nodes were positively associated with delayed breast reconstruction compared to immediate BR. Multivariate regression models show patient of younger age (p0.001), BMI less than 30 (p0.01), negative lymph nodes (p0.03) and no neoadjuvant chemotherapy requirement (p0.01) are more likely to have BR overall: young patients (p0.02) are more likely to have delayed BR. Race and insurance type were not significantly associated with BR or timing of BR given the patient population.At a public hospital, serving a largely uninsured population, post-mastectomy rates of immediate BR and overall BR within 5 yrs are 22% and 43%, respectively. Overall complication rates were low and a substantial fraction of post-mastectomy patients received microsurgical BR. Contrary to previous studies, race and insurance status were not found to be the primary drivers of post-mastectomy reconstruction.

Background Despite being considered a non-invasive procedure, injections can cause adverse outcomes including infections, overfilling, asymmetry, foreign body granulomas, and reactions that lead to scarring. Complications may be associated with the procedure itself, the physician’s technique, and/or the type of agent injected. In these instances, it is important to be able locate and identify the substance used. This study investigated the viability of using MRI to correctly identify injected substances, their symmetry of distribution, and related complications. Methods Fourteen patients with suspected injectable filler complications were identified by our institution’s plastic surgery service. All subjects were scanned with MRI, using highly specific face-oriented sequences at high resolution with small field of view and thin slices across the axial and coronal planes by T1 Dixon non-contrast, T2 Dixon, and T1 Dixon after gadolinium injection. Two independent and blinded radiologists evaluated the images and reported (1) the likely injected substance, (2) symmetry, and (3) complications. These radiological results were compared against clinical data provided by the plastic surgery service. Results Ten patients (83 %) presented objective injectable complications: 4 had abscess, 4 granulomata, and 2 had allergic reactions to the injected substance. The Fleiss Kappa for inter-rater agreement on substances was 0.80. Asymmetry was identified in six patients (50 %) with a Kappa between radiology evaluators of 1. MRI characteristics of these common fillers are summarized in table form. Conclusions Given the growing awareness among referring physicians of the value of dedicated facial MRI, utilization of this imaging technique may lead to discovery of the injected substance’s true identity, evaluation of symmetry and/or complications.

The aim of single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) and other types of trans-umbilical procedures (TU) has been to perform operations with minimal or no visible scars. However, in bariatric surgery, they are in particular demanding and the final esthetic advantage is in question given the long-term abdominal skin alteration, or abdominoplasty. We propose an alternative rationale and approach to achieve the minimal scarring concept in bariatric surgery. A retrospective report of a straight forward method using four access ports, where three ports are concealed at either the lower panniculectomy region or the lateral folds of the umbilicus. The technique was performed on a pilot series of 65 female patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). The study sample had a mean age of 40.3 years and a mean BMI of 41.1 ± 4.2 kg/m2. All procedures were completed laparoscopically. Field ergometry, working angles, and surgeon’s convenience were not impaired. Mean operation time was 46 min and mean hospital stay was 2.3 days. Complications were minimal. Postoperative esthetic outcome and the rationale behind port placement were well appreciated by the patients. Performing LSG with the described approach is feasible, safe, and consistent with basic principles of ergometry including correct working triangulation. Esthetic outcome is up to the minimal scarring concept and future body contouring is not hampered.

Component separation is a technique used to provide adequate coverage for midline abdominal wall defects such as a large ventral hernia. This surgical technique is based on subcutaneous lateral dissection, fasciotomy lateral to the rectus abdominis muscle, and dissection on the plane between external and internal oblique muscles with medial advancement of the block that includes the rectus muscle and its fascia. This release allows for medial advancement of the fascia and closure of up to 20-cm wide defects in the midline area. Since its original description, components separation technique underwent multiple modifications with the ultimate goal to decrease the morbidity associated with the traditional procedure. The extensive subcutaneous lateral dissection had been associated with ischemia of the midline skin edges, wound dehiscence, infection, and seroma. Although the current trend is to proceed with minimally invasive component separation and to reinforce the fascia with mesh, the basic principles of the techniques as described by Ramirez et al in 1990 have not changed over the years. Surgeons who deal with the management of abdominal wall defects are highly encouraged to include this technique in their collection of treatment options.

Background:Bacterial infection is a well-known risk of breast implant surgery, occurring in 2.0 to 2.5 percent of cosmetic cases and up to 20 percent of reconstructive cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a first-generation cephalosporin for perioperative prophylaxis; how

An interactive digital education aid for breast reconstruction patients was developed because of a perceived need to provide patients with more education regarding the treatment so that they can make better informed treatment decisions. A prospective randomized study was conducted to assess its effectiveness.Breast cancer patients who were candidates for breast reconstruction were recruited and randomized into a control group and a study group. Both groups received routine assessment and education in the plastic surgery clinic, but the study group also watched the interactive digital education aid. Questionnaires assessing knowledge, anxiety, and satisfaction were administered (1) before the initial plastic surgery consultation, (2) immediately before surgery, and (3) 1 month after surgery.A total of 133 women participated, 66 in the control group and 67 in the study group. Women in both groups showed decreased anxiety, increased knowledge, and enhanced satisfaction with their decision-making ability associated with preoperative instructions about reconstructive surgery. However, the study group was significantly more satisfied than the control group with the method of receiving information and showed a less steep learning curve regarding the different techniques of breast reconstruction. They also tended to have a reduced mean level of anxiety and increased satisfaction with the treatment choice compared with the control group.An interactive digital education aid is a beneficial educational adjunct for patients contemplating breast reconstruction. Patients who use an interactive digital education aid demonstrate greater factual knowledge, reduced anxiety, and increased postoperative satisfaction compared with patients given preoperative instructions using standard methods alone. The benefit of an interactive digital education aid is expected to be higher in a broad-based practice setting outside of a comprehensive cancer center.

Adjuvant brachytherapy reduces local recurrences following wide local excision of large, high-grade sarcomas, but its use with immediate flap reconstruction is associated with a high wound complication rate following previous radiotherapy. To avoid flap irradiation and reduce wound-healing morbidity, a treatment strategy using negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) for temporary wound coverage during brachytherapy followed by delayed flap reconstruction was used in 3 previously irradiated sarcoma patients. NPWT was continued after brachytherapy catheter removal to stimulate vascularization, granulation, and wound contraction. Flap reconstructions were performed after the adequacy of the resection margins was pathologically confirmed and the wound bed appeared grossly vascularized. Prior to reconstruction, 2 patients required additional excision of positive or close permanent-section surgical margins. There were no major wound-healing complications during 9-18 months' follow-up. Staged closure using this approach may have advantages over immediate flap reconstruction in some sarcoma patients. Potential advantages include avoiding flap irradiation, reducing wound size and magnitude of the reconstructive procedure, and ensuring tumor-free surgical margins before definitive reconstruction.

Combination chemotherapy for advanced penile cancer can produce partial response rates of up to 64%. Complete responses are rare, suggesting a need for adjunct therapies to facilitate cure. We evaluated patients with metastases who underwent surgical consolidation after responding to chemotherapy.We reviewed the records of 59 patients with advanced penile carcinoma treated from 1985 to 2000 and identified 10 treated with surgical consolidation after demonstrating a stable, partial or complete response to chemotherapy. Presenting tumor burden included pelvic and inguinal metastases. Surgical outcomes and survival were assessed.After chemotherapy 4 patients had a complete response, 1 had a partial response and 5 had stable disease. Three major perioperative complications, including postoperative bleeding, an episode of acute renal failure and deep venous thrombosis in 1 patient each, and 4 minor complications, including skin breakdowns in 3 and wound seroma in 1, occurred. Three cases were rendered pN0. All 3 patients received ifosfamide, paclitaxel and cisplatin chemotherapy. Seven patients had 3 or fewer metastatic lymph nodes following surgery, of whom 4 showed no disease and 3 died. All 3 patients with greater than 3 metastatic lymph nodes died. For all patients the 5-year actuarial survival rate was 40% with a median survival of 26 months. Patients with 3 or fewer and greater than 3 positive nodes had a median survival of 48 and 23 months, respectively (p = 0.116).Select patients with metastatic penile cancer that shows disease stabilization or a response to chemotherapy should be considered for surgical consolidation to extend survival.

Introduction We analyzed cases of ecthyma gangrenosum (EG) and "ecthyma-like" or "ecthyma-mimicking" cases of necrotic lesions of the skin to improve current definitions of these conditions. Methods The retrospective analysis compared 28 cases of lesions (from 2001 to June 2015) that were identified as EG. Age, sex, lesion location, time from macule to ulcer, underlying diseases, number of lesions per patient, wound bacterial culture, blood culture, and immune status served as variables for analysis and comparison. Results Only in 20 cases (71.42%) was Pseudomonas aeruginosa the etiology of the lesion. The etiology of eight cases was various bacterial species (five cases, 17.85%) and fungal species (three cases, 10.73%). In 21 cases (75%), the lesion appeared in immunocompromised patients. In four cases (14.28%), the patients suffered from Pseudomonas sepsis. In four cases (14.28%), the lesion appeared in healthy individuals. There was no difference in clinical picture, lesion location, number of lesions per person, and treatment strategy between Pseudomonas and non-Pseudomonas cases. Conclusion Necrotic lesions resembling EG can have various microbiological etiology and can occur in immunocompetent or healthy persons. With no difference in clinical picture, two separate definitions should not be applied to Pseudomonas and non-Pseudomonas cases. We suggest accepting a broader definition of EG.

Background Restoration of the abdominal wall’s integrity after postoperative wound dehiscence is frequently performed in a delayed fashion, necessitating a temporary dressing of the dehisced wound. Methods The Vacuum Assisted Closure (VAC) system (Kinetic Concepts, Inc., San Antonio, TX) was used in 21 patients with postoperative abdominal wound dehiscences that could not be closed immediately and who were at high risk for healing complications. The VAC device was used in conjunction with sharp debridement and it was maintained on a continuous mode with a negative pressure of −75 to −125 mm Hg. The dressing was changed every 2 days. VAC therapy was continued until the integrity of the abdominal wall was reestablished by surgical procedures or secondary healing. Results Thirteen patients had fascial dehiscence, and 9 of them had frank bowel exposure. Definitive fascial closure was performed in 9 of 13 patients with fascial dehiscence. Stable cutaneous coverage was subsequently achieved in all patients by local abdominal skin flap advancement (6), skin grafting (9), or secondary intention healing (6). Seven patients had part of their VAC therapy as outpatients. The complications included a low-output small bowel enterocutaneous fistula in 2 patients and partial skin graft loss in 1 patient. The fistulae resolved after operative treatment (1) or conservative treatment (1). Conclusion Integration of the VAC system in the management of post-laparotomy wound dehiscence in patients with compromised wound healing appears to be successful and should be considered in such patients to provide a stable, healed wound.

Everolimus (RAD001) is an orally bioavailable derivative of rapamycin that has been approved in Europe as an immunosuppressive to prevent rejection in adult cardiac and renal transplant recipients ...

A well-informed patient who actively participates in decision making is an essential ingredient of successful outcome in breast reconstruction. The plastic surgeon must be prepared to answer all the patient's questions in a clear and concise manner. All women considering breast reconstruction need to understand the rationale for reconstruction and have realistic expectations for what can be accomplished. They need to consider the optimal timing and the advantages and disadvantages of each technical option. The patient education process can be enhanced by the thoughtful inclusion of growing set of educational tools and decision aids. This article reviews each of these issues and suggests a way to organize and present the essential material in a way that has proven effective with women in our practice.

The authors present a new technique for distal shaft hypospadias repair using a flip flap fashioned with only two stitches. In raising the flap, the tissues lateral and proximal to the flap are undermined but there is no undermining beneath the flap. The flap is sutured up to the glans with two 4-0 Vicryl sutures. No sutures are placed at the lateral edges of the flap to create the "tube" of the neo-urethra, and no postoperative urinary drainage is used. Thirty-three children with distal shaft hypospadias underwent the "two-stitch" flip flap operation. The complications were one fistula and one case of urinary retention. The technique is an easy method for reconstructing distal penile hypospadias with a very low rate of complications and is suitable for an outpatient surgical setting.

The medical institutions in the country have advanced together with the development of the state of Israel. Plastic surgery, which has progressed significantly during the 20th century, has also grown rapidly in the new state. The arrival of Jewish plastic surgeons from all over the world with the knowledge and experience gained in their countries of origin, as well as the need for reconstructive surgical treatment for many combat injured soldiers, also contributed to the development of plastic surgery. This review tells the story of plastic surgery in Israel, since its foundation until nowadays. This article reviews the work of the founders of plastic surgery in Israel, indicating significant milestones in its development, and clinical and scientific contribution to the international plastic surgery profession. Moreover, the article describes the current condition of the field of plastic surgery in Israel and presents the trends and the future challenges facing the next generation of plastic surgery in Israel.

The generally accepted definition of ecthyma gangrenosum (EG) states that this condition is pathognomonic of Pseudomonas septicemia (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and that it should usually be seen in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with underlying malignant disease. The cases described in the literature present a somewhat different picture. Our objective was to analyze this controversy. The review analyzes 167 cases of EG that were described in the literature from 1975 to 2014. All articles on EG cases with EG-specific tissue defect that had signs of general and/or local infection and skin necrosis were included and analyzed, whatever the etiology detected. Necrotic lesions of the skin diagnosed as EG have various microbiological etiology, can occur in immunocompetent or even healthy persons, and are not necessarily connected with septicemia. In published cases, P. aeruginosa was detected in 123 cases (73.65 %); of them, there were only 72 cases (58.5 %) with sepsis. Other bacterial etiology was detected in 29 cases (17.35 %) and fungi were detected in 15 cases (9 %). While the clinical picture of the disease and the treatment strategy remain the same, there is no need to invent two separate definitions for Pseudomonas and non-Pseudomonas cases. We suggest accepting a broader definition of EG.

Macromastia in adolescents is multifactorial and usually idiopathic, associated with obesity or hormonal imbalances. Less commonly, it can result from virginal or juvenile breast hypertrophy, a rare condition of unknown etiology, where an alarmingly rapid breast enlargement occurs during puberty. Breast hypertrophy in the adolescent population can have significant long-term medical and psychological impacts. Although symptoms can be severe, many plastic surgeons, pediatricians, and parents are often reluctant to surgically treat adolescent macromastia. However, reduction mammoplasty is a safe and effective treatment and may be the only way to alleviate the increased social, psychological, and physical strain caused by macromastia in adolescents.

Since its introduction in 1991, skin-sparing mastectomy has emerged as an acceptable surgical technique in the management of breast cancer patients, providing optimal oncological safety and efficacy with favorable aesthetic results. Rates of native skin flap ischemia and necrosis after skin-sparing mastectomy are 2%-30% and result in a decreased aesthetic outcome and delay of necessary adjuvant treatment. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been advocated for the management of various compromised flaps, and when instituted immediately postoperatively, may prevent progression of ischemia into necrosis. We report the case of a 41-year-old female who developed skin flap ischemia after undergoing skin-sparing mastectomy and was immediately treated with hyperbaric oxygen. The patient received a total of five hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions, achieving full resolution of the ischemia without any complications. Further research is essential to determine the role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in managing skin flap ischemia post skin-sparing mastectomy. Until such studies exist, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be considered a preferred option in the management of native skin flap ischemia after skin-sparing mastectomy.

Incisional hernias in the abdominal wall are a by-product of multiple previous laparotomies. Unfortunately, the incidence of incisional hernias has risen, as we have progressed with new surgical techniques in the treatment of abdominal pathologies. Many methods have been attempted in the past to achieve a better and more durable repair, namely using components separation to bring the fascia into the midline, and reinforce incisional hernias with different mesh materials. The authors review the recent literature regarding the efficacy of these synthetic materials and biomaterials in incisional hernia repair, as well as share their experience in treating complex abdominal wall defects using components separation and biologic mesh.

Abdominal wall defects may arise from trauma, infection, and prior abdominal surgeries, such as tumor resections. Although ideally reconstruction should be accomplished as soon as possible to restore the integrity and function of the abdominal wall, it is not always a viable option. A successful reconstruction must take into consideration the local environment of the defect, as well as the global condition of the patient. Therefore, it is imperative that a multidisciplinary team be involved to optimize the patient's care, particularly when a defect is complicated by a wound infection, an abscess, a fistula, or a neoplasm. Our goal in this article is to explore the challenges evoked by each of these special situations, and review the necessary steps for successful management.