Fat attacks!: a case of fat embolisation syndrome postliposuction

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Intensive Care Medicine
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Liposuction is a common cosmetic procedure with generally low complication rates.
• Increased patient size and aspirate volume correlate with higher risks.
• Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a rare, severe, and potentially fatal post-liposuction complication.

Observation:

• A 45-year-old woman developed FES after bilateral leg liposuction for lipoedema.
• She presented with respiratory failure, cerebral dysfunction, and a petechial rash.
• The patient required brief intensive care unit organ support.

Findings:

• FES diagnosis can be challenging due to its rarity and varied presentation.
• The case underscores FES as a critical differential diagnosis in post-liposuction patients.
• Prompt identification and management are vital for patient survival.

Implications:

• Increased liposuction rates globally necessitate heightened awareness of FES.
• Clinicians must consider FES in patients with unexplained post-procedural deterioration.
• Effective management strategies are essential for improving outcomes in this rare but dangerous complication.