Fat embolism syndrome following cosmetic breast reduction liposuction

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication that is primarily associated with long bone fractures, although cases have been reported following soft tissue trauma and cosmetic surgeries such as liposuction. The diagnosis of FES relies on clinical features with no specific laboratory or imaging findings. We present a case of FES in an otherwise healthy man presenting to the emergency room for evaluation of tachycardia, hypoxia and drowsiness on postoperative day 1 following breast reduction liposuction. Based on the clinical picture and symptomatology with diagnostic workup excluding alternative diagnoses, the patient was diagnosed clinically with FES and treated supportively with supplemental oxygen. The patient quickly made a full recovery and was discharged from the hospital the following day without any residual symptoms at his follow-up appointments.