Nd:YAG laser-assisted liposuction for an HIV patient

Active antiretroviral therapy has reduced the mortality of patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and increased both the quality of life and the longevity of patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The long-term effects of HIV infection are increasingly observed, particularly changes in fat distribution or "lipodystrophy." Strategies to prevent, mitigate, or reverse HIV-associated lipodystrophy have been difficult to develop. The medical management of fat redistribution usually is ineffective, and surgical approaches to HIV-associated lipodystrophy have already been described, but major drawbacks include recurrence of the fat accumulation. This report aims to describe the clinical outcomes for a man with buffalo hump who underwent lipolaser-assisted liposuction. This technique obtained a significant reduction in the size of the adiposity and an improvement in the neck's range of motion. At this writing, after 3 years, the patient is satisfied with his cosmetic and functional results. The authors believe that lipolaser-assisted liposuction using the Smartlipo Deka-Mela neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) 1,064-mm-long pulse is effective in reducing the cervicodorsal fat pad. The technique is performed using local anesthesia with low operative risks and minimal surgical trauma. The treated zone shows rapid healing, and the whole procedure requires a day-hospital recovery, thus reducing the costs.