Yujin Myung

The Classification and Prognosis of Periocular Complications Related to Blindness following Cosmetic Filler Injection.

Summary: Common side effects during hyaluronic acid filler injections are typically mild and reversible, but several reports of blindness have received attention. The present study focused on orbital symptoms combined with blindness, aiming to classify affected patients and predict their disease course and prognosis. From September of 2012 to August of 2015, nine patients with vision loss after filler injection were retrospectively reviewed. Ptosis, ophthalmoplegia, and enophthalmos were recorded over a 6-month follow-up, and patients were classified into four types according to periocular symptom manifestation. Two patients were categorized as type I (blindness without ptosis or ophthalmoplegia), two patients as type II (blindness and ptosis without ophthalmoplegia), two patients as type III (blindness and ophthalmoplegia without ptosis), and three patients as type IV (blindness with ptosis and ophthalmoplegia). The present study includes previously unpublished information about orbital symptom manifestations and prognosis combined with blindness caused by retinal artery occlusion after cosmetic filler injection. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, V.

Relationship Between Obesity and Surgical Complications After Reduction Mammaplasty: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background Although many patients who undergo reduction mammaplasty are obese, reports on whether obesity is a risk factor for postoperative complications have been conflicting. Objectives This systematic literature review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the relationship between obesity and surgical complications after reduction mammaplasty. Methods The PubMed, Medline, and Embase databases were searched between 1998 and 2016 using the MeSH terms and keywords “reduction mammoplasty (mammaplasty),” “breast reduction,” “obesity,” “body weight,” “body mass index,” and “risk factor.” Results Among 26 studies that reported surgical complication risk and patient body weight, 11 concluded that obesity is not a risk factor and 15 reported that high body mass index increases surgical risk. On comparing obese and non-obese patients, we found that obese patients had a higher relative risk of surgical complications (1.38, 95% confidence interval 1.13-1.69), particularly skin and fat necrosis (2.01, 95% confidence interval 1.54-2.63). The pooled risk further increased with an increase in body mass index, and it was 1.71 for body mass index >35 kg/m2 and 2.05 for body mass index >40 kg/m2. Conclusions Our meta-analysis indicated that the risk of surgical complications and tissue necrosis after reduction mammaplasty is higher in obese patients than in non-obese patients and that the risk gradually increases with an increase in the severity of obesity. The findings of this study could form a basis for preoperative patient education, surgical method selection, and determination of the extent of postoperative care.

A Novel Method for Lower Blepharoplasty: Repositioning of the Orbital Septum Using Inverted T-Shaped Plication

Background Numerous techniques have been used for lower blepharoplasty. The techniques can be classified into four principles: excision of excess fat, septal reset, orbital fat repositioning, and reinforcement of the attenuated orbital septum. Objectives We modified the conventional approach of septal reinforcement to utilize an inverted T-shaped plication with preservation of the orbital fat, repositioning the septum below the arcus marginalis to refine tear-trough deformity. Methods From April 2010 to September 2015, 93 individuals underwent bilateral lower blepharoplasty. Retrospective chart reviews were performed, and the results and complications during the follow-up period were recorded and photographed. Results The patients comprised 76 women and 17 men. Thirteen, 33, and 47 patients exhibited mild, moderate, and severe fat herniation, respectively, accompanied by tear-trough deformity. A total of 70 and 23 patients underwent lower blepharoplasty via subciliary and transconjunctival approaches, respectively. We performed inverted T-shaped plication of the orbital septum in mild and moderate cases and X-shaped plication in severe cases, and in moderate and severe cases, we performed septal repositioning simultaneously. The mean follow-up period was 25 months. When immediate mild lid retraction or lid malposition was observed, it recovered without specific treatment within 1 to 2 weeks. No permanent lid malposition or ectropion was observed in any of the patients. Conclusions Septal plication with inverted T-shape or X-shape can minimize the downward forces that affect postoperative eyelid malposition and ectropion. Further, these procedures provide sufficiently strong reinforcement of the orbital septum to restore infraorbital fat herniation. Level of Evidence 4

Postoperative Complications Associated With Reduction Malarplasty via Intraoral Approach: A Meta Analysis.

Background Each year, thousands of patients, particularly Eastern Asians, receive reduction malarplasty to achieve a more feminine and slender facial appearance. To date, there lacks a systematic analysis regarding the postoperative complications related to this procedure. Hence, the authors performed a comprehensive literature review with meta-analysis. Methods Articles were searched and reviewed using the MEDLINE and Embase databases. Among the studies regarding surgical outcomes after reduction malarplasty, articles with explicit reports and clear numbers of postoperative complications were selected for meta-analysis. Additionally, manual searches were made from references of selected articles. Results A total 14 retrospective review articles that represented 3149 cases were reviewed, and 7 different postoperative complications were analyzed. The complication that showed the highest weighted mean percentage of frequency was transient sensory weakness, with 5.8% (Z = −18.012; 95% confidence interval, 4.3–7.6%), followed by drooping (2.8%), nonunion (2.2%), asymmetry (1.8%), mouth opening restriction (1.8%), uncontrolled bleeding (1.3%), and facial nerve injury (0.9%). Conclusions According to our meta-analysis of previous literatures, the aggregated rates of various complications related to reduction malarplasty were not high. Among the various complications, short-term sensory weakness was shown as the most frequent complication, emphasizing the necessity of patient warning and education before and after the operation. Moreover, soft tissue drooping and bone nonunion are also not rare and surgeons should be aware of these complications.

Clinical Significance of the Levator Veli Palatini Muscle in Velocardiofacial Syndrome Patients: Implications in Velopharyngeal Incompetence and Pharyngeal Flap Surgery

Background: Anatomical variation and deficits of velocardiofacial syndrome patients are related to unsatisfactory treatment results in surgical correction of speech abnormalities. The main purpose of the article is to investigate the clinical significance of thinned levator veli palatini muscle in VCFS patients. Methods: The authors reviewed medical records of all children with velocardiofacial syndrome who received pharyngeal flap surgery between March 2007 and September 2015. Data including thickness of levator veli palatini in magnetic resonance examination; preoperative velopharyngeal gap size from nasoendoscopy; and preoperative and postoperative speech outcomes were collected. Results: Total of 36 velocardiofacial syndrome patients with preoperative objective data and postoperative speech outcomes were identified. Preoperative velopharyngeal gap showed significant correlation with thickness of levator veli palatini (correlation coefficient: 0.297/0.397, P = .02/.03) and gap size showed correlation with postoperative speech improvement (0.347/0.413, P = .04/.02). However, muscle thickness showed no correlation with speech outcomes (0.046/0.037, P = .77/.86). Conclusion: Thinned levator veli palatini muscle in velocardiofacial syndrome patients are related to widened velopharyngeal gap and production of hypernasal speech, and can give negative impact on postoperative surgical outcome of pharyngeal flap surgery.

Objective assessment of flap volume changes and aesthetic results after adjuvant radiation therapy in patients undergoing immediate autologous breast reconstruction

Background The use of immediate breast reconstruction and adjuvant radiation therapy is increasing in breast cancer patients. This study aimed to analyze the aesthetic outcome and changes in flap volume in patients with breast cancer undergoing radiation therapy of the surgical site after immediate autologous tissue reconstruction. Methods Immediate abdominal free flap breast reconstruction following unilateral mastectomy was performed in 42 patients; 21 patients received adjuvant radiation (study group) and 21 patients did not (control group). To compare flap volume, three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) was performed before and after radiation. Also, aesthetic analysis was performed in both groups to evaluate shape changes. Results There was a 12.3% flap volume reduction after the completion of radiation in the experimental group that was significantly greater than the 2.6% volume reduction observed in the non-radiation group (P<0.01). There was no significant difference in the short- and long-term aesthetic results between the groups. Conclusions When performing immediate autologous breast reconstruction, 14% volume overcorrection is recommended for patients in whom adjuvant radiation therapy is anticipated to improve aesthetic outcomes.

Palmar Ulnar Artery Perforator Free Flap for Fingertip Reconstruction: Anatomical and Clinical Study

Background Fingertips are a common site for hand injuries. The ideal substitute for fingertip pulp is tissue that matches texturally with minimal donor site morbidity. We described anatomical findings from cadaveric studies and the reliability of the palmar ulnar artery perforator (PUAP) free flap techniques for the reconstruction of fingertips injuries. Methods The cadaveric study involving 8 hands was conducted to illuminate the anatomy of the hypothenar region. We investigated the emerging point of perforators, diameter of the artery at the origin, and the length of the pedicle. Forty-four patients with fingertip injuries underwent fingertip reconstruction using PUAP free flaps. Data on the baseline patient demographics, hospital courses, and flap sizes were obtained retrospectively. The 6-month postoperative sensory capacity was determined using a 2-point discrimination test. Results The cadaveric study found that the PUAP pedicles arose from the superficial palmar arch, the mean length of pedicles, and the diameter and location of perforators were also analyzed. The PUAP flap sizes varied from 2.0 × 2.3 cm to 2.5 × 3.5 cm, and the mean operative time was 124 min. In all cases, we performed neurorrhaphy for fingertip sensory restoration. All donor sites were closed primarily, and the 2-point discrimination test result was 5.7 ± 0.87 mm 6 months after surgery. Conclusions We confirmed the anatomical consistency of the PUAP. Among the numerous reconstruction options available for fingertip injuries, the PUAP free flap is a useful fingertip reconstruction option.

A comparison of axial circumference between superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap and other workhorse flaps in dorsal foot reconstruction

Abstract Background: Management and reconstruction of dorsal foot defects present various difficulties and challenges. The main purpose of this article is to discuss experiences of using superficial circumflex iliac perforator (SCIP) flap in various defects of the dorsal foot region. Methods: From August 2012 to February 2015, a total of 13 patients – nine males and four females – received a reconstruction operation for dorsal foot defects using SCIP flaps (the SCIP group). The defects were caused by trauma (n = 9), diabetes (n = 3), and malignancy (n = 1). The mean age was 43.07 years, which ranged between 19–70 years. Additionally, 19 other patients, who underwent reconstruction operation of the foot dorsum using ALT and TDAP flaps during the same study period, were recruited for comparison. The axial circumference of the operated foot and unoperated contralateral foot was measured, and the difference were compared between all patients, as well as between the two groups. Results: All of the flaps survived after the operation, but secondary procedures were performed in two cases due to partial skin necrosis. The mean follow-up period was 13 months. The mean axial circumference discrepancy of the SCIP group (12.08 ± 2.96 mm) was significantly lower compared with ALT (25.21 ± 3.16 mm) and TDAP (29.88 ± 1.55 mm) groups (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The authors experienced good results with using the SCIP flap in dorsal foot reconstruction. Reconstruction with the SCIP flap can be a good surgical option, with better postoperative symmetry and minimal donor sequelae, compared to conventional workhorse flaps.

A new all-purpose bilateral cleft lip repair: Bilateral cheiloplasty suitable for most conditions

BACKGROUND Only experienced surgeons can produce satisfactory results with most of the current surgical methods for bilateral cleft lip repair. The existing methods require not only preoperative orthodontic maneuvers but also accurate measurements for surgical design. We describe an easy-to-design and simple-to-execute general purpose surgical technique to repair most bilateral cleft lips. METHODS A retrospective review was performed for the patients who underwent bilateral cleft lip repair using our novel method between 2003 and 2016. The authors collected data from medical records, and the aesthetic results were judged using the aesthetic result categories by three independent surgeons; indirect anthropometry was applied to patients over 9 years of age. In addition, we investigated the complications, the reoperation rate, and the reasons for reoperation. RESULTS Bilateral cleft lip surgery was performed in 146 cases between 2003 and 2016. Seventy-eight patients had bilateral complete cleft lips, 47 patients had bilateral incomplete cleft lips, and 21 patients had bilateral complete and incomplete cleft lips (asymmetric patients). There were no acute complications requiring re-surgery, such as wound dehiscence, hematoma, and infection. According to aesthetic classification, 74 patients (51%) were classified into category I and 72 patients (49%) into category II; no patients were classified into categories III and IV. Seventy patients (48%) underwent secondary lip operations. In anthropometry, the measurements were observed to be symmetrical; left and right measurement data were not significantly different. The main purposes of the revision were excision of widened philtral scars (42 cases) and correction of lateral vermilion bulging (28 cases). CONCLUSIONS We have found our novel technique to be simple and capable of providing consistent, reproducible, and reliable results.

The Effect of Immediate Breast Reconstruction on Thoracic Spine Alignment After Unilateral Mastectomy

Micro‐Abstract Preoperative and 2‐year postoperative chest radiographs of 116 patients who received immediate breast reconstruction with unilateral mastectomy and 250 patients who underwent unilateral mastectomy without reconstruction were retrospectively reviewed. There was a significant difference in the Cobb angle between the preoperative and 2‐year postoperative chest radiographs between the 2 groups. Background: Long‐term posture change after unilateral mastectomy in breast cancer patients can affect spinal alignment during the postoperative period. We evaluated the effect of immediate breast reconstruction on body posture after surgery by analyzing spinal alignment with radiographic studies. Materials and Methods: Preoperative and 2‐year postoperative chest radiographs of 116 patients who received immediate breast reconstruction with unilateral mastectomy and 250 patients who underwent unilateral mastectomy without reconstruction were retrospectively reviewed. Cobb angle, the direction of spinal curvature, upper and lower ends of the thoracic curve, and curve length were measured and compared between both groups. Additional patient information including age, height, weight, body mass index, and side of surgery were collected via chart review. Results: There was a significant difference in the Cobb angle between the preoperative and 2‐year postoperative chest radiographs between the immediate breast reconstruction group and mastectomy group. Without considering curvature change, the difference was −0.593° in the reconstruction group and 2.698° in the mastectomy‐alone group (P = .02), and considering curvature change, the difference was 0.335° and 3.972° in the reconstruction and mastectomy‐alone group, respectively (P < .01). Conclusion: The amount of change in postoperative spinal alignment was significantly smaller in the immediate breast reconstruction group compared with patients who received only unilateral mastectomy without reconstruction. We suggest that immediate breast reconstruction positively affects spinal alignment, leading to better posture and physical function.