Necrotising fasciitis in both calves caused by Aeromonas caviae following aesthetic liposuction

Abstract

Liposuction is the most widely performed cosmetic procedure in the world, and is considered safe and without serious complications. However, necrotising fasciitis has been documented as a rare complication following abdomen and thigh liposuction. We present a case of necrotising fasciitis in a 22-year-old female who underwent cosmetic liposuction in both calves. The diagnosis of necrotising fasciitis was delayed, leading to multi-organ dysfunction and skin necrosis with consequent massive skin loss. Non-cosmetic physicians are generally unfamiliar with liposuction-induced complications, and may not suspect necrotising fasciitis due to its rarity. However, awareness of its clinical features is critical since early diagnosis and prompt surgical debridement can prevent significant morbidity and even death. (C) 2010 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.