Introduction: Transplant patients like the non transplant population can have body shape disorders requiring surgical interventions. There is a lack of literature about aesthetic surgeries in transplant patients. Our aim in this study is to share our experience in various aesthetic procedures in solid organ recipients.
Materials and Methods: Six (5 female, 1 male) transplant patients who were operated for surgical correction of the aging face, ptosis and lipodystrophy of the breast in Baskent University Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Department between 2010-2017 included in the study. 5 patients had renal transplants and one patient had liver transplant. Minimal aesthetic procedures like botulinum toxin and dermal filler injections, scar revisions were excluded. All patients were consulted to transplant team preoperatively and hospitalized in transplant inpatient clinic.
Results: Mean age was 48 years. Aesthetic surgeries were breast reduction (2), high smas face lift (1), blepharoplasty (2), dermo fat grafting (1). Mean hospitalization duration was 2.5 days. 4 patients had no minor or major complications. One patient had skin flap necrosis which healed with secondary intention. Another patient had ectropion after lower lid blepharoplasty; corrected with another procedure.
Discussion: Transplant patients are a special group of patients who receive long term immunosuppressive treatment and medications like high dose steroids. These treatments can lead to dermal atrophy and cause pseudo skin laxity. Removing the skin excess and fat tissue should be done meticulously. Effort should be made to avoid complications such as skin necrosis and unpredictable wound healing problems when resecting the excess tissue. Preoperative consultation to transplant surgeons, keeping the operative time shorter is another important factor.
Conclusion: Body dysmorphic disorders interfering with normal life activities, demanding for a younger appearance are the main reasons of aesthetic procedures. Transplant patients can be operated safely with preoperative planning, consultation to transplant surgeons and close follow-up.