Citation

Choong WL, Wohlgemut HS, Hallam MJ. J. Wound Care 2017; 26(4): 188-190.

Affiliation

Specialty Registrar in Plastic Surgery, Department of Plastic Surgery, St John's Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group -- Palgrave-Macmillan)

DOI

10.12968/jowc.2017.26.4.188

PMID

28379099

Abstract

This case study describes frostbite, a previously unreported complication following cryolipolysis, which resulted in substantial necrosis of the flank. Medical attention was not sought until one week after treatment. On examination, two distinct areas of significant frostbite in the left flank with surrounding erythema were revealed. Surgical intervention was avoided, as is recommended in cases of frostbite, and conservative treatment resulted in recovery of the affected area. Here, the authors highlight the adverse effects related to cryolipolysis, analysing the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and management of this injury. The necessity of regulation within the cosmetic sector and the challenges associated with its implementation are also described. The authors believe emphasis must be placed on increasing patient awareness on the potential hazards of seeking cosmetic treatment from unregulated providers.

Language: en

Keywords

cryolipolysis; frostbite; unregulated cosmetic providers