International Journal of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Changes in body habitus and age-related soft tissue descent can alter the body’s centre of mass, thus centre of gravity and loading patterns, contributing to postural maladaptations and myofascial dysfunction. Previous studies have demonstrated postural improvement and reduction in back pain after abdominoplasty and rectus plication; however, to our knowledge, no reports have described comprehensive body contouring as a functional intervention to reat Gluteus Medius Syndrome. A 61-year-old female with a history of L4 fracture managed conservatively presented with progressive buttock pain and ambulatory limitation consistent with Gluteus Medius Syndrome. She underwent a combined single-session procedure: abdominoplasty with rectus plication (preserving infra-umbilical Scarpa’s fascia), 360° waist liposuction, liposuction of the lateral thighs, buttock lift with autologous adipo-dermal pedicled auto-augmentation cranial adipo-dermal paddle rotation). Total aspirate/excised volumes were 6 L of fat and 4.3 kg of skin flaps. The postoperative course was uncomplicated. By 8 months post-op, the patient reported complete resolution of buttock pain and returned to habitual ambulation, now walking ~5 km daily beyond routine activities. Photographs at 8 months show improved trunk posture. Comprehensive body contouring that includes abdominal wall tightening and circumferential lift procedures may alter the body’s centre of gravity and spinal loading sufficiently to produce clinically meaningful improvements in posture and function. This single case suggests a potential functional role for plastic surgical body contouring beyond aesthetic benefit. Prospective studies using objective postural and gait metrics are needed to conclusively recommend this approach broadly.

As the demand for aesthetic procedures grows and techniques evolve rapidly, many aesthetic surgeons face challenges in accessing structured, up-to-date learning resources. Plastic Surgery Home (www.plasticsurgeryhome.in) is a curated, open-access online platform designed to support continuing professional development (CPD) among aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgeons. This platform addresses gaps in CPD access by consolidating global society links, surgical video libraries, journal access and real-time updates on academic events into a single, user-friendly interface. It caters to a wide range of users, from trainees to senior practitioners, aiming to stay current with innovations and global meetings. This innovative platform supports self-directed, flexible and specialty-relevant learning. This report exemplifies how digital ecosystems can complement traditional CPD models framework while also demonstrating adaptability to other medical disciplines to foster lifelong learning in a globally connected professional community.

Gynaecomastia is the proliferation of male breast tissue and is most often treated effectively with surgical excision of the glandular component. Late recurrence following a seemingly complete excision is unusual, particularly when the original disease was related to anabolic androgenic steroid exposure. We describe a healthy Caucasian male who had a history of anabolic steroid use more than a decade ago. He underwent bilateral excision of tender gynaecomastia seven years previously, with full symptomatic relief. He recently re-presented with new bilateral painful subareolar masses that extended laterally toward the chest wall. On exploration, firm, ‘banana shaped’ fibrous cords of glandular tissue were discovered, adherent to the serratus anterior muscle and the pectoral muscle. Histopathological analysis confirmed gynaecomastia with dense stromal fibrosis. Following meticulous surgical excision, the pain resolved, and the patient returned to normal activities. This rare presentation of late, bilateral, fibrous recurrence demonstrates that even after apparently complete excision, persistent microscopic glandular foci may evolve over time. Clinicians should be aware of the fibrous phase of gynaecomastia, particularly in men with a history of anabolic steroid exposure. Recurrent fibrotic disease in patients who present with new painful chest wall masses many years after primary surgery should be considered and consented to during the preoperative consultations.

Non-ablative radiofrequency (RF) treatments have emerged as a popular modality for skin tightening, offering effective results with minimal downtime. This case series evaluates the clinical outcomes of a novel high-frequency (6.78 MHz) hybrid RF system that combines monopolar and bipolar energy with active cooling, in five patients with Fitzpatrick skin Types III and IV. Treatments targeted facial zones, including the midface, lower face and perioral regions. All patients tolerated the treatment well, reporting low pain scores (VAS 2–3/10), with no pigmentary changes, scarring or other adverse events. Objective wrinkle reduction was observed in three patients, ranging from 16.6% to 45.1%. Active contact cooling maintained epidermal temperatures below 42°C, reducing pain and preventing thermal injury. All patients reported good-to-excellent satisfaction with the outcomes. These findings are consistent with the literature supporting the safety and efficacy of RF in darker skin types and emphasise the protective role of active cooling in minimising thermal injury. This case series demonstrates the safety, effectiveness and comfort of hybrid RF with integrated active cooling for non-invasive facial rejuvenation in patients with skin of colour.

Tuberous sclerosis is primarily a neurocutaneous autosomal dominant disorder that affects the skin, kidneys, eyes, heart, lungs, bones, and central nervous system. It encompasses the triad of adenoma sebaceum, mental retardation, and epilepsy. Because of their cosmetic deformity, patients with adenoma sebaceum and normal mental development may experience severe psychological and social issues. Adenoma sebaceum fibroplasias have been treated with a variety of methods, including electrocoagulation, electrodesiccation and curettage, liquid nitrogen freezing, excision, and dermabrasion. There is not a single modality that is particularly effective. In this study, we describe the effectiveness of dermabrasion as a treatment for adenoma sebaceum. This study was conducted in the department of plastic surgery in a tertiary care center in North India. Departmental ethical clearance and consent from the subject were obtained. The process was carried out while under general anesthesia. All of the tuberous lesions on the forehead, cheeks, and chin were abraded using mechanical dermabrasion equipment. Following surgery, the treated areas recovered without skin discoloration or scars. The procedure was both cosmetically pleasing and efficacious. Mechanical dermabrasion is an efficient and safe remedy for treating massive adenoma sebaceum of the face, even though we cannot permanently clear these lesions due to their nature. A recurrence of the angiofibromas may require recurrent dermabrasion. The quality of life can be enhanced with their social perspective and physical appearance.

Cracked heels, affecting nearly 48% of the population, are more prevalent in females and individuals with high foot strain, such as housewives and farmers. Characterised by dry, thickened skin and fissures, the condition can lead to pain, bleeding and infection if untreated. Common causes include barefoot walking, ill-fitting footwear, obesity and systemic conditions such as diabetes and hypothyroidism. Though often benign, investigations and preventive care are essential. Traditional remedies and Ayurvedic practices remain popular, with modern interventions focusing on hydration and barrier repair. With rising awareness and demand, the irony is that though the cracked heel treatment market is predicted to reach USD 2.3 billion by 2033, there is not much literature available on cracked heels.