From Cellulite to Post-liposuction Skin Irregularities: A Proposal for Definition and Classification

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Plastic Surgery
• Aesthetic Medicine

Background:

• Post-liposuction skin irregularities (PLSI) are a known complication of liposuction.
• Limited literature exists on the specific characteristics of PLSI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To classify the appearance of PLSI using a cellulite scale.
• To identify novel features of PLSI in patients with a history of liposuction compared to a control group.

Main Methods:

• 47 women were analyzed, with 47% having undergone prior liposuction.
• Images of the gluteal area and thighs were assessed for depression depth, skin laxity, asymmetry, and v-sign by three investigators.
• Statistical analysis explored correlations between parameters and previous liposuction.

Main Results:

• Good to excellent intraobserver and moderate to good interobserver agreement was achieved.
• PLSI can manifest as severe cellulite signs or unique features like asymmetry and the v-sign.
• These specific features were previously unreported.

Conclusions:

• This study provides novel insights into the morphology of PLSI.
• The proposed validated features of PLSI will be applied in future clinical practice.