Lipoinjection for fat deficiency in right cheek

Arthi

Staff Nurse, Unit 4A, Kauvery Hospital, Alwarpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Introduction

Facial asymmetry due to soft tissue deficiency can significantly affect a patient’s self-esteem, social interactions, and quality of life. Lip injection, or autologous fat transfer, is a minimally invasive procedure used to restore facial volume and symmetry. This case study presents the nursing care of a 16-year-old female undergoing lip injection for right cheek fat deficiency.

Case Presentation

A 16-year-old female was admitted to the hospital for elective lip injection due to long-standing fat deficiency in the right cheek. She first noticed reduced fullness on her right side several years ago, resulting in a less symmetrical facial appearance. She denied any history of facial trauma. There was no significant past medical or surgical history. The patient had no known drug allergies and no family history of chronic illnesses such as diabetes mellitus or hypertension.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Noticeable reduction in fullness of right cheek
  • Mild facial asymmetry
  • No pain, swelling, or skin changes
  • No systemic symptoms such as fever or weight loss

Diagnostic Test

A CT scan of the facial bones revealed:

  • Mild thinning of the right mandibular ramus
  • Reduced medullary space on the affected side
  • Other bony dimensions preserved
  • No fractures or pathological lesions detected

Management

The patient underwent autologous fat transfer (lip injection) to the right cheek under aseptic conditions. Fat was harvested from a donor site, processed, and injected into the deficient area to improve contour and symmetry. Pre- and post-operative nursing care focused on infection prevention, swelling management, and patient comfort.

Nursing Diagnosis

  1. Disturbed body image related to facial asymmetry.
  2. Risk for infection related to surgical intervention.
  3. Acute pain related to surgical site manipulation.
  4. Knowledge deficit related to post-procedure self-care.

Nursing Interventions

  • Assessed and documented baseline facial appearance and patient concerns.
  • Provided pre-operative teaching regarding the procedure and recovery expectations.
  • Maintained strict aseptic technique during preparation and post-operative dressing changes.
  • Administered prescribed analgesics and monitored for side effects.
  • Applied cold compresses intermittently to reduce post-procedure swelling.
  • Educated patient on avoiding pressure to the surgical site and maintaining hygiene.
  • Offered psychological support to address body image concerns.

Outcomes

  • Improved facial symmetry post-procedure.
  • Pain effectively managed with medication.
  • No signs of infection at the surgical site.
  • Patient demonstrated understanding of post-procedure care instructions.
  • Patient expressed satisfaction with improved appearance.

Patient Appreciation Feedback

“I am very happy with how my face looks now. I feel more confident, and I thank the doctors and nurses for taking good care of me throughout the procedure.”

Evaluation

The patient’s condition improved as expected, with enhanced facial fullness and symmetry. She complied with home care instructions and attended scheduled follow-up visits. The nursing goals for pain control, infection prevention, and patient education were met.

Evidence (CT Scan Facial Bone Report enclosed)

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of holistic nursing care in aesthetic surgical procedures. Addressing not only the physical aspects of recovery but also the psychological impact of facial asymmetry plays a crucial role in achieving positive patient outcomes.

Lip injection proved effective in restoring volume and improving the patient’s self-image, supported by comprehensive nursing care before, during, and after the procedure.

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