A Novel Approach to Shaping the Lateral Abdomen: Simultaneous Application of High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) Therapy and Synchronized Radiofrequency at the Flanks: A Multicenter MRI Study.

Background: An accumulation of adipose tissue on the lateral abdomen (flanks) coupled with muscle deconditioning negatively affects core stability, muscular balance, and the intrinsic strength essential for maintaining optimal body mechanics and posture. This lateral fat accumulation and diminution of muscle result in an unfavorable abdominal profile and present challenges in finding appropriately fitting attire.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness and safety of the simultaneous application of high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) therapy and synchronized radiofrequency for sculpting the lateral abdomen.

Breast reduction trend among plastic surgeons: a national survey.

Background: A number of breast reduction techniques have been developed over the years, but debate over which technique is better for patients continues to grow. The authors' goal was to survey members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to identify their preferences and practices and report their opinion regarding issues related to the various breast reduction techniques.

Methods: In the fall of 2006, a one-page anonymous survey was sent to 5112 plastic surgeons who were members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Endoscope-assisted temporoparietal fascia harvest for auricular reconstruction.

Background: Reconstruction of microtia may require a temporoparietal fascia flap. The authors modified existing endoscopic temporoparietal fascia harvest techniques and applied them to auricular reconstruction to reduce incision size, scarring, and visible alopecia. Flap design was altered to include posterior occipital circulation to improve perfusion and decrease venous congestion.

Abdominoplasty can be performed successfully as an outpatient procedure with minimal morbidity.

Since abdominoplasty has been shown to have a positive impact on patient's self-image and quality of life, it is no surprise that the annual number of these procedures performed has continued to increase. Historically, because of concerns with patient safety the majority of these operations have been performed on an inpatient basis. The breast reduction experience has shown that with proper patient selection and operative technique, this procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis without compromising safety.

Who needs the surgical headlight?

Objective: The use of surgical headlights may lead to awkward posture and limit the mobility and visibility of the operating team. Despite the vast availability of fiber-optic instruments, many surgeons continue to use the surgical headlight, which may be harmful to their health and career. We report the use of the Lumitex LightMat surgical illuminator instead of the conventional surgical headlight in cleft palate surgery.

Outpatient extended abdominoplasty in the patient with massive weight loss.

Background: Extended abdominoplasty in the patient with massive weight loss has traditionally been performed as an inpatient procedure. To date, there has been no report on the safety of outpatient extended abdominoplasty in the patient with massive weight loss.

Objective: The authors sought to evaluate the safety of outpatient abdominoplasty in this growing population of patients.