Standardization in photography for body contour surgery and suction-assisted lipectomy

Despite the existence of basic clinical standards in plastic surgery, specific guidelines for body contour photography have not been detailed previously. In this report we propose standard and supplemental views for positioning of the subject for suction-assisted lipectomy and body contour surgery. Also demonstrated are specialty views for the face, where liposuction has become an integral component of the procedures. Finally, recommendations for photographic documentation of skin "textural" changes and "cellulite" improvement with liposuction, as well as regions requiring lipectomy, are discussed. A professional photographic studio and a model were utilized. Proper lighting, equipment, and backgrounds are described to achieve such standards. General principles for clinical photography are reviewed. We present standard and supplemental views for suction-assisted lipectomy and body contour surgery, with an emphasis on methods to address advanced liposuction techniques (i.e., superficial suction lipectomy) that may affect texture and contour of the skin. These techniques provide consistency for all practitioners, allowing comparison of results and techniques.