Skin Necrosis Following Power-Assisted Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Without Energy-Based Devices: A Case Report
Liposuction is a well-known cosmetic surgical technique performed by plastic surgeons to achieve ideal body contouring by removing excess adipose tissue. Despite being considered a safe procedure, liposuction may result in complications, particularly in patients with comorbidities such as cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases, a history of smoking, or when combined with other surgical procedures. We present a case of a 36-year-old female (BMI 26 kg/m²) who underwent Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) (MicroAire) without the use of an energy-based device, followed by a tummy tuck. Postoperatively, the patient developed skin necrosis, which was managed conservatively with Lovenox, calcium channel blocker cream, and later mechanical dermabrasion with tranexamic acid injection. The necrotic area resolved completely within several weeks, and the patient recovered well. This case raises awareness that PAL (MicroAire) can be aggressive and may lead to necrosis, contrary to manufacturer claims of safety.