"Subzone-Counting" Method in Asian Facial Liposuction: A Retrospective Study.

[BACKGROUND] Facial liposuction is a popular and reliable procedure for patients with subcutaneous fat accumulation pursuing the ideal face shape. However, complications like irregularities and asymmetry are still problems for plastic surgeons. To lower the incidence of the above complications, we developed the "subzone-counting" method. In this study, this technique was introduced and evaluated.

[METHODS] By several lines all parallel to the earlobe-mouth corner line, the liposuction area was subdivided into several subzones. With consistent negative pressure, the paths of the cannula trip in all subzones were also parallel to the earlobe-mouth corner line. An objective index could be obtained by counting the number of aspiration in every subzone. Based on this index, the real-time adjustment was made to achieve smoothness and symmetry.

[RESULTS] This study identified 32 Chinese patients who accepted this method between January 2019 and January 2021. The follow-up ranged from 6 to 44 months. Twenty-nine and 3 patients were satisfied and somewhat satisfied with the postoperative outcome, respectively. No patient was unsatisfied with the outcome. And no major complication was reported.

[CONCLUSIONS] The "subzone-counting" method is safe and effective for facial liposuction. The approach helps intraoperative judgment and adjustment. According to the real-time counting results, contour smoothness and bilateral symmetry can be easily achieved and less dependent on the surgeon's experience.