The use of intraoperative grid pattern markings in lipoplasty

Intraoperative grid pattern markings have been used in the performance of liposuction. Grid pattern markings include series of longitudinal and transverse lines to delineate various anatomical boundaries and landmarks, including the midline, lateral line, and medial line. The markings are superimposed on the customary preoperative markings and divide broad or circumferential body surfaces into smaller subunits for liposuction. Grid pattern markings are applied to areas such as the anterior thighs, medial thighs, entire abdomen, flanks, back, arms, buttocks, calves, and ankles; they are not applied to smaller, less curved areas. Eighty-two consecutive patients underwent lipoplasty in 562 areas of the body. The revision rate for postliposuction contour irregularities was 4.0 percent (nine of 224 areas) where grid pattern markings were used; one area had an indentation type of contour irregularity and required autologous fat grafting. The revision rate was 1.5 percent (five of 328 areas) where grid pattern markings were not used; two areas in one patient had indentation-type contour irregularities and required autologous fat grafting. All remaining areas requiring revision had protuberant-type contour irregularities and responded to additional liposuction only. The use of grid pattern markings is associated with a low incidence of serious contour-related complications.