Background: Vascularized submental lymph node (VSLN) transfer is an emerging approach for extremity lymphedema. This study investigated the long‐term outcome and venous complications of VSLN for unilateral lower extremity lymphedema.Methods: Between 2010 and 2018, patients who underwent VSLN for unilateral lower extremity lymphedema were retrospectively evaluated. Patient demographics, operative records, complications, circumferential improvement, and episodes of cellulitis were analyzed. Further comparisons were performed between different types, numbers, and techniques of venous anastomoses.Results: A total of 75 VSLNs in 70 patients survived, giving a 100% success rate. Six flaps (8%) had venous complications (VC group) and 69 flaps (92%) did not (No‐VC group). There were no statistical differences in types, numbers, and techniques of anastomoses between two groups (P = .65, 1, and .56, respectively). At a mean follow‐up of 32.0 ± 23.0 months, mean circumferential improvement and episodes of cellulitis between two groups did not statistically differ significantly (P = .31 and .09, respectively).Conclusions: VSLN is an effective treatment for lower extremity lymphedema. The types, numbers of veins, and techniques of venous anastomoses did not statistically affect the venous complication rates. Functional outcomes of the VSLNs were not compromised if venous complications were salvaged promptly.
Background The demand for aesthetic procedures continues to grow globally, particularly in East Asian countries. The popularity of specific aesthetic procedures varies, however, depending on the particular East Asian geographical region being studied. This study aimed to evaluate the experiences of and attitudes toward aesthetic procedures in five East Asian countries/regions, including China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.Methods To recruit participants, an online questionnaire was designed and distributed on social media networks between May 2015 and March 2016. The statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software, version 22.0.Results A total of 3,088 people responded (approximately 600 in each country/region). Of these, 940 participants (47.8%) responded that they had experienced at least one aesthetic procedure in the past. Taiwan had the highest number of participants who had experienced at least one procedure (264/940, 41%), with primarily non-surgical experiences. Only in South Korea did surgical cosmetic experiences exceed non-surgical cosmetic experiences (55.9% vs. 44.1%). The popularity of particular procedures and the motivation for undergoing aesthetic procedures varied by country.Conclusions The popularity of aesthetic procedures continues to evolve. Similar trends were observed across the East Asian regions; however, each country had its unique demands and preferences. The information provided by this study can help aesthetic plastic surgeons further understand the patients in their corresponding region, customize their practice, and develop the requisite skills.
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