Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Image Enhancing Filters on Patient Expectations for Plastic Surgery Outcomes.

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies use a three-part strategy for facial visual enhancement: (1) Facial Detection, (2) Facial Landmark Detection, and (3) Filter Application (Chen in Arch Fac Plast Surg 21:361-367, 2019). In the context of the surgical patient population, open-source AI algorithms are capable of modifying or simulating images to present potential results of plastic surgery procedures. Our primary aim was to understand whether AI filter use may influence individuals' perceptions and expectations of post-surgical outcomes.

Preferences in Suture Skills Instruction: Virtual Versus In-Person Instruction.

Introduction: As medical education increasingly incorporates digital methods such as video lectures, e-learning, and virtual meetings, it becomes crucial to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual classrooms in teaching surgical techniques. This study aims to assess whether live virtual classrooms can effectively convey surgical skills to medical students.

Methods: First- and second-y medical students were randomized to in-person or live-video sessions once a week, for 2 wk.

Trends in Minority Representation Among Independent Plastic Surgery Match Applicants: An Analysis of 1000 Applicants Over an 11-Year Period.

Background: Improving diversity within plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) trainees is a crucial step to reduce inequities at the provider level. Trends in minority representation among independent program match applicants are understudied. We analyzed gender, racial, and ethnic demographic trends among independent PRS match applicants.

Surgical Site Allergic Contact Dermatitis to 2-Octyl-Cyanoacrylate: A Systematic Review and FDA MAUDE Review.

Background: Skin adhesives containing 2-ocyl cyanoacrylate are a common source of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) that complicate postoperative wound healing. There are limited studies that describe postoperative cutaneous reactions to skin adhesives and clinical management.

Objectives: To review the incidence, description, and clinical management of surgical site ACD to 2-ocyl cyanoacrylate.

Hirudotherapy Efficacy and Complications in the Management of Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review.

Background: We aimed to assess the effect of hirudotherapy on flap congestion and thrombosis in adult female patients who underwent microvascular breast reconstruction.

Methods: A systematic review of PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane was completed. A qualitative synthesis of all included studies was then performed.

Hormonal status and gender identity do not change aesthetic preferences for top surgery.

Background: Chest masculinization surgery (CMS) is becoming increasingly common, especially in the nonbinary population. However, variations in CMS preferences between this group and the transgender population remain undefined. Additionally, it is unknown if concurrent testosterone use may correlate with differing aesthetic preferences.

Zinc in Dermatology: Exploring Its Emerging Role in Enhancing Botulinum Toxin Formulations and Clinical Efficacy.

This literature review provides a novel exploration of zinc's multifaceted roles in dermatology, with a particular focus on its potential integration into botulinum toxin formulations-an area that remains relatively underexplored in clinical practice. Zinc is widely recognized for its critical functions in skin health, including morphogenesis, regeneration, and protection, and its use in aesthetic medicine offers a unique opportunity for innovation. Specifically, incorporating zinc into botulinum toxin formulations could enhance the efficacy and stability of these treatments.

The Impact of Race and Ethnicity in Microvascular Head and Neck Reconstruction Postoperative Outcomes: A Nationwide Data Analysis.

Background: Racial and ethnic disparities have been extensively reported across surgical specialties, highlighting existing healthcare inequities. Nevertheless, evidence is lacking regarding their influence on postoperative outcomes after head and neck reconstruction. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of race and ethnicity on postoperative complications in head and neck microvascular reconstruction.

Impact of Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARB) versus Other Antihypertensive Medication on Blood Pressure in Patients on Dialysis: A Meta-Analysis.

Introduction: Hypertension is an important factor driving mortality among dialysis patients. Angiotensin-II receptor blocker (ARB) has been effective similarly to angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACEs) but with a low incidence of side effects.

Methodology: The meta-analysis included all published studies that investigated the effect of ARB on the hypertension in adult dialysis patients (≥18 years).

Association of Race and Postoperative Outcomes in Ventral Hernia Repair With Component Separation.

Introduction: Hernia repairs are the most common surgical procedures in the United States, with a significant financial burden primarily attributed to emergent presentations and postsurgery complications. This study aimed to examine race differences on postoperative outcomes.

Methods: American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried to identify ventral hernia repair (VHR) cases from 2016 to 2021, with a subgroup of patients undergoing component separation (CS).

Dorsal Preservation versus Component Dorsal Hump Reduction Rhinoplasty: An Assessment of Patient-reported Outcomes.

Background: The literature on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) discussing dorsal preservation rhinoplasty (DPR) and component dorsal hump reduction (CDHR) is scarce. This study aims to fill the gap in PROs between these techniques.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted to investigate PROs of DPR and CDHR.

Enhancing Post-Mastectomy Care: Telehealth's Impact on Breast Reconstruction Accessibility for Breast Cancer Patients.

Objective: To examine how the recent sharp rise in telemedicine has impacted trends in accessibility of breast reconstruction (BR).

Patients And Methods: A retrospective study reviewed patients who underwent a total mastectomy at our institution from 1 August 2016 to 31 January 2022. By comparing cohorts before and during the widespread implementation of telemedicine, we assessed telehealth's impact on healthcare accessibility, measured by distance from patients' residences to our institution.

Beyond the language barrier: Assessing health literacy of Spanish breast cancer surgery resources.

Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-specific mortality in Hispanic women in the United States. Given the complexity of treatment options, disparities in access to quality care, and increased rates of inadequate or marginal health literacy within this population, these patients face significant barriers to informed decision-making. We aimed to assess the health literacy of Spanish breast cancer surgery websites.

The Impact of Metabolic Syndrome on Postoperative Outcomes in Abdominal Body Contouring: A Propensity Score-Matched Nationwide Analysis.

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents cardiometabolic dysregulation, defined by hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. There remains a significant gap in our understanding of whether MetS impacts outcomes of abdominal body contouring procedures. We aimed to assess the influence of MetS on postoperative outcomes of abdominal body contouring by concurrent abdominoplasty and panniculectomy.

Purse-String DIEPplasty: A Technique to Improve Aesthetic Outcome of Autologous Breast Reconstruction.

The purse-string DIEPplasty technique is a method to improve aesthetic outcomes in breast reconstruction using deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) free flaps. Traditionally, DIEP flaps, harvested from the lower abdomen, take on a triangular shape that can lead to sub-optimal aesthetic outcomes with occasionally poor breast projection, irregular contours, or minimal upper pole fullness. The purse-string DIEPplasty technique addresses these issues by using a 0 Polydioxanone continuous purse-string suture through the Scarpa's fascia to modify the harvested flap's shape before inset, giving it a more round base and a central dome-like projection similar to an implant.

Representation of Racial Diversity on US Plastic Surgery Websites: A Cross-sectional Study: Racial Diversity on Plastic Surgery Websites.

Background: The racial diversity portrayed in plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS) media is an important indicator of an inclusive environment for potential patients. To evaluate the degree to which PRS websites demonstrate inclusivity, we assessed the racial composition of both patients and plastic surgeons depicted on the most visited academic and private PRS websites to determine the extent to which racial diversity is represented.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2023.

Understanding Public Perceptions of Nipple and Scar Characteristics After Chest Wall Masculinization Surgery.

Background: Surgical chest masculinization procedures, especially gender-affirming top surgery (GATS), are becoming increasingly prevalent in the USA. While a variety of surgical techniques have been established as both safe and effective, there is limited research examining ideal aesthetic nipple appearance and incision scar pattern. This study employs patient images to understand the public's perception on top surgery outcomes when adjusting for BMI ranges and Fitzpatrick skin types.

Association of Metabolic Derangement and Postoperative Outcomes in Hernia Repair With Component Separation: A Propensity Score-Matched Nationwide Analysis.

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is characterized by cardiometabolic abnormalities such as hypertension, obesity, diabetes, or dyslipidemia. This study aims to evaluate the association of MetS on the postoperative outcomes of ventral, umbilical, and epigastric hernia repair using component separation.

Methods: The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was used to identify patients who underwent ventral, umbilical, and epigastric hernia repair with component separation between 2015 and 2021.

Evaluating the Mechanical Strength of Three Dimensionally (3D) Printed Implants in Septorhinoplasty through Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

Background: Autologous nasoseptal cartilage grafts are used to correct nasal asymmetry and deviation in rhinoplasty, but patients who have undergone multiple surgeries may have limited autologous cartilage tissue available. 3D-printed L-strut implants may address these challenges in the future, but their mechanical strength is understudied. Silk fibroin-gelatin (SFG), polycaprolactone (PCL), and polylactide (PLA) are bio-inks known for their strength.

Comparing Collagenase and Tissue Subcision for Cellulite Treatment of the Buttock and Thigh Regions: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background: In this systematic review, we assessed the therapeutic efficacy and safety of collagenase (CCH) and tissue subcision (TS) for treating cellulite, which ranges from subtle to pronounced lesions.

Methods: A systematic review was performed following PRISMA guidelines for CCH and TS treatment to the thigh and gluteal regions. A proportion meta-analysis was then conducted using Stata statistical software.

An Institutional Analysis of Early Postoperative Free Tissue Transfer Takeback Procedures.

Background:  Postoperative free tissue transfer reexploration procedures are relatively infrequent but associated with increased overall failure rates. This study examines the differences between flaps requiring takeback versus no takeback, as well as trends in reexploration techniques that may increase the odds of successful salvage.

Methods:  A retrospective review was conducted on all free tissue transfers performed at our institution from 2011 to 2022.