Very difficult to give you a quick answer

Sirish Maddali, MD answers: Tear trough area lump after fat transfer

I had fat transfer done in April 2008, and after two weeks, a visible lump formed on my right cheek and a larger bulge on my left side, but it's visible only when I'm smiling and laughing. Since then I seeked the advice of 5 other doctors, all unwilling to touch my face, all telling me different times (from 6 months to 3 years) to wait it off. What can I do besides waiting for months or years "to see" if it will go away? Can I get a proactive approach to a solution instead? Thank you so much.


Sirish Maddali, MD
12 months ago

As the other doctors have mentioned, this could be a cyst, scar, hardened fat, etc. Fat transfer in the lower eyelid area can have great results, but can be very difficult to correct. It is wise to wait at least a year to see how this lump "matures." It should be treated based on how superficial and how deep it is. Some superficial ones can be cut out directly. Some deeper ones can also be carefully cut out. However, in some patients who have difficulty with nodules and lumps as a chronic problem, it is possible to put a thin sheet of tissue (fascia or Alloderm) under the skin and over these lumps to give a smoother appearance.

It is very difficult to say what to do unless you are seen. Having said that, most physicians would wait a year before doing anything. Find a good plastic surgeon in your area in Canada and let them follow you during this waiting time. Good luck.

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