A Web-based Tool for Liposuction Endpoints and Postoperative Results: A Quantitative Prediction Model for Thigh Circumferential Liposuction

The preoperative demographic variables include age, BMI, BFR, basal metabolic rate (BMR), horizontal circumference at the innermost point via the groin (C-upper), circumference of superior patellar level (C-lower), the greatest thickness of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) on the horizontal level at the innermost point via the groin (T-upper), the greatest thickness of SAT on the superior patellar level (T-lower), muscle contouring (none, slight, median, sharp), skin condition (none, slight, moderate, severe) evaluated from quality, elasticity, firmness, and overall appearance, workout routine (none, once a week, twice a week), genu valgum or genu varum, and reproductive history. This study's C-upper and C-lower values were the averages of the left and right legs. The operative details included the Liposuction volume (LV), volume of transplanted fat (TF), radiofrequency (RF) treatment, botulinum toxin type A (BtX-A) treatment, and operative time. The only postoperative complication in this cohort was seroma. The BFR and BMR were measured using an InBody 570 (InBody Co., Ltd. Korea).

The assessment of changes in thigh circumference has primarily relied on a standardized method of constant-tension tape measurement, which was highly reliable and repeatable. The SAT thickness in these cases was measured using calipers. The volume of fat was measured in the aspirate after settling. The C-upper and C-lower change ratio (RC-upper and RC-lower) was defined as the difference between the preoperative and postoperative data divided by the preoperative data.

Postoperative management and follow-up

Details of the surgical technique have been fully described in our previous report. Patients were advised to wear an elastic compression garment for 3–6 months; they generally achieve their final appearance over 3 months as edema subsides and skin contraction ensues. The postoperative thigh circumference was measured using a constant-tension tape at least 6 months postoperatively. Daily activities resumed 1 week after surgery, and a return to physical activities occurred 1.5 months after surgery. The follow-up period ranged from 12 to 24 months (mean, 15 months). Patient satisfaction with the postoperative appearance was assessed on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 = poor, 2 = fair, 3 = good, 4 = very good, 5 = excellent).