The Use of Carboxytherapy for the Treatment of Deep Partial-Thickness Skin Burns After Circumferential and High-Definition Liposuction: Promising Clinical Results in 5 Consecutive Cases

Abstract

Background Literature on skin burn treatment after liposuction is limited. To date, no publication has discussed possible treatments for this complication despite its relatively frequent incidence. Objectives The objective of this study is to report the early experiences of the use of carboxytherapy for the treatment of Grade IIB partial-thickness skin burns after liposuction. We aim to analyze its potential beneficial effects on wound healing and skin pigmentation, without the need for additional corrective surgery or permanent scarring. Methods Five patients who showed Grade IIB skin burns within 24 h after circumferential and high-definition liposuction were treated with carboxytherapy. Wound healing was evaluated after 1 and 2 weeks. Scar formation and skin pigmentation were evaluated after 3 months. Results Carboxytherapy treatments were either performed every day or every other day for 1 or 2 weeks, depending on the wound healing. At 2 weeks postoperatively, all skin burns showed complete or near-complete healing. At 3 months, there were no zones of hypertrophic scarring or skin contracture. No complications with regard to the carboxytherapy treatment were observed. Conclusions Carboxytherapy is an easy-to-use, affordable, and safe treatment for Grade IIB skin burns postliposuction. Its known influence on neo-angiogenesis and oxygen release in a hypoxic environment has beneficial effects on wound healing and avoidance of hypertrophic scarring and skin hyperpigmentation after skin burns. It can potentially become a useful addition for surgeons who perform liposuction and body contouring. Further studies with larger numbers of patients are necessary to determine its full potential. Level of Evidence: 4