Journal of Clinical & Experimental Dermatology Research
Open Access

Abstract

Effect of Radiofrequency-Assisted Liposuction (RFAL) Coagulation on Excisional Surgery: Risk of Complications and Vascular Necrosis

R. Stephen Mulholland*, Neil M. Vranis and Michael Kreindel

Background: Patients often seek non-invasive and minimally invasive radiofrequency-based treatments for skin tightening and fat reduction prior to excisional procedures in order to avoid extensive visible scar burden. Some surgeons are concerned for vascular compromise or an increase in wound healing complications when patients present for surgical evaluation months or years after having radiofrequency-based treatments in the same anatomic area.

Methods: The study included 42 patients who underwent excisional body flaps after RF treatment, with no incidence of necrosis or delayed healing. Additionally, 111 patients underwent facial and neck procedures following radiofrequency treatment, with no cases of necrosis or delayed healing. Complications were limited to two cases of cellulitis, which resolved with oral antibiotics, and one hematoma and two temporary neuropraxias that resolved without intervention. However, we retrospectively reviewed 642 procedures where Radiofrequency-Assisted Liposuction (RFAL) had been performed on average 1.6 years prior to an excisional procedure. Anatomic regions included the face, neck, torso and extremities.

Results: There were no cases of flap compromise or delayed wound healing. There were two cases of cellulitis that resolved after a course of oral antibiotics, a neck hematoma that required evacuation and a temporary neuropraxia that resolved without intervention.

Conclusions: Excisional procedures that involve wide flap undermining can be safely performed after radiofrequency- based treatments in the same anatomic location.

Published Date: 2024-06-28; Received Date: 2024-05-29