Background: High-definition body contouring describes a unique surgical approach to create superior outcomes not afforded with conventional body contouring techniques. Achieving high-definition outcomes requires contouring in a 360-degree or circumferential manner, creating natural shadows and muscle highlights, and staying true to gender-specific aesthetic guidelines. These prerequisites make high-definition body contouring surgeries technically challenging and rigorous for all surgeons. Because of the complexity and scope of surgery, prolonged surgical times are a frequent reality. Objective: As such, surgeons should make all attempts to promote patient safety by reducing operative times. Methods: We have identified several measures that may improve high-definition body contouring outcomes and promote safety by minimizing operative times. Results: We discuss maneuvers that we have observed clinically that may to minimize operative times in high-definition body contouring which include (a) early planning of a customized, comprehensive, and accurate surgical design, (b) circumferential prepping and draping, (c) administering advanced ultrasound-assisted liposuction techniques, (d) utilizing ex vivo liposuction technique, (e) enacting the closed-loop canister fat graft system, (e) appreciating safe and hazardous zones during liposuction, and (f) considering staging of surgeries. Conclusion: This article discusses several experiential measures implemented to optimize high-definition body outcomes and safety by reducing operative times.
Radiologic imaging is integral to modern plastic and reconstructive surgery practice. However, many junior trainees receive minimal formal education on selecting the appropriate imaging modality for specific procedures. This gap can lead to overuse, misinterpretation, or omission of essential studies. The authors address this educational need by outlining when and why specific studies are indicated. This narrative review synthesizes current peer-reviewed literature and expert opinion to describe best imaging practices in plastic surgery. Clinical scenarios commonly encountered in general reconstruction, breast and aesthetic surgery, burn care, craniofacial and pediatric surgery, gender-affirming surgery, hand and upper extremity surgery, and microsurgery are reviewed for optimal imaging strategies. For each clinical domain, the review identifies first-line imaging modalities, adjunct studies when applicable, and procedural-specific considerations. Emphasis is placed on the clinical rationale for each imaging decision, including safety, diagnostic yield, and relevance to surgical planning. By linking imaging recommendations to practical scenarios and surgical decision-making, this guide supports early trainees in developing imaging literacy. Including detailed clinical questions when ordering studies and understanding modality-specific strengths are emphasized as essential habits for accurate diagnosis and efficient care. This review offers a subspecialty-specific, clinically oriented reference for imaging in plastic surgery. It equips junior trainees with foundational knowledge to select appropriate studies, communicate effectively with radiologists, and optimize patient outcomes.
The field of facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in the United States is represented by several prominent organizations, each specializing in distinct areas such as aesthetic and cosmetic enhancement, reconstructive techniques, and microvascular procedures. This article examines key cosmetic and reconstructive surgery organizations, focusing on their available online educational resources, interactive learning platforms, opportunities for knowledge advancement, and mechanisms for connecting established surgeons with emerging professionals through mentoring programs. A narrative review was conducted in PubMed using keywords “facial aesthetic surgery,” “facial esthetic surgery,” “facial cosmetic surgery,” “facial reconstructive surgery,” and “facial plastic surgery” to identify suitable organizations and collect relevant data. The inclusion criteria prioritized American organizations dedicated to facial aesthetic/cosmetic surgery. In addition, 2 internationally recognized cosmetic surgery organizations headquartered in the United States were included due to their prominence among US-based surgeons. Boards, councils, and international organizations, as well as organizations not focused on facial aesthetic/cosmetic surgery, were excluded. Data on online educational tools and learning opportunities was collected and analyzed directly from each organization’s official website. This article provides a descriptive overview of prominent American and selected international organizations dedicated to facial cosmetic/aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. It highlights their interactive online educational resources, specialized training opportunities, and structured networking and mentoring platforms aimed at fostering professional development and collaboration. In addition, the article outlines available patient-centered resources designed to assist individuals seeking surgical providers, postoperative care information, or revision strategies following unsatisfactory surgical outcomes. Brief historical context and organizational objectives are also summarized to provide comprehensive insights into each entity.
Alar rim retraction (ARR) is a challenging iatrogenic complication in rhinoplasty, causing aesthetic distortion and functional compromise. Complex secondary cases often involve compounded deficiencies in both the lower lateral cartilage (alar rim) and the caudal upper lateral cartilage (ULC). Current isolated grafting techniques (eg, Lateral Crural Extension Graft or LCEG) often fail to provide complete, harmonious correction in these dual-level defects, highlighting the need for a unified reconstructive strategy like the novel Lateral Crural-Rim Bridging Graft (LCRBG). A 32-year-old woman presented with progressive, unilateral ARR following primary rhinoplasty, causing asymmetric nostril show and functional distortion. She underwent secondary rhinoplasty using the LCRBG technique. A 2.5 cm × 8 mm septal cartilage graft was harvested and precisely secured to span from the residual lateral crus to the deficient caudal ULC. The procedure was well-tolerated and achieved the desired correction of the alar rim position. The LCRBG offers a novel, unified solution for complex secondary rhinoplasty, simultaneously correcting ARR and supporting the deficient caudal ULC. By bridging these 2 levels, it restores anatomical continuity, improves contour, and addresses limitations of traditional single-level grafting. Further prospective studies are necessary to fully validate its efficacy.
Objective: To describe perioperative findings and self-reported outcomes in a retrospective series of adolescent patients undergoing labiaplasty. Design: Retrospective observational study of 30 adolescent labiaplasty cases performed between September 2020 and April 2025 at a private medical center. Patients were aged 14 to 17.8 years (mean = 15 years). All procedures were performed under local anesthesia and required dual informed consent (patient and guardian). During this period, approximately 1000 labiaplasties were performed at the same center in women over 18 years of age. Methods: All patients underwent linear/curvilinear edge-reduction labiaplasty using a combination of radiofrequency and diode laser. Closure was achieved with interrupted 5-0 Monocryl (subdermal) and 5-0 Vicryl Rapide (cutaneous) sutures. Clitoral hood reduction was performed in most cases. Postoperative management included topical estrogen, oral antibiotics, and strict hygiene measures. Follow-up visits were scheduled at 1 and 6 weeks postoperatively, with telemedicine follow-up for patients living outside the city. Results: Thirty patients were analyzed. One hematoma (6×5×5 cm) required drainage, and four minor wound dehiscence healed spontaneously. No infections or sensory changes were reported. Most patients reported subjective functional and aesthetic improvement and high self-reported satisfaction. Most returned to school within 48 hours, while sports and physical activities were restricted for 6 weeks. Postoperative outcomes were assessed using a non-validated, surgeon-designed, self-reported questionnaire. Conclusions: In this limited retrospective case series, adolescent labiaplasty under local anesthesia was associated with high self-reported satisfaction and a low rate of short-term complications. These findings should be interpreted cautiously given the study design, non-validated outcome measures, and limited follow-up.
