14 wks post arm lipo, still experiencing bumps, lumps, possible hardening and scarring of tissue, adhesion, discoloration.

Question

I had under arms lipo more than three months ago. I had these concerns at 4 weeks but was told to let them heal on their on. Now two more months have gone by nothing changed. What should I do, please advise!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question regarding your arm liposuction results.  Everyone heals differently after arm liposuction.  Some patients heal quickly after arm liposuction, whereas others take longer to heal from arm liposuction. I would not be overly concerned that you are 14 weeks post-op from arm liposuction. I would be more concerned with what to do now. I would suggest aggressive, deep tissue massage to help break up residual arm liposuction scar tissue. This type of massage should be done by a certified, massage therapist who is experienced in treating postoperative arm scar tissue. The "bumps, lumps, and hardening" that you describe could all be due to scar tissue after arm liposuction. The discoloration maybe do to poor blood flow. If a VASER was used, it may be due to a contact burn. In addition to the massage, I would suggest radiofrequency treatment. Radiofrequency can help to dissolve the scar tissue after liposuction. Please see an experienced, board-certified, plastic surgeon who is skilled in using the radiofrequency machine to treat postoperative arm liposuction scar tissue. In conclusion, I would suggest deep tissue massage and radiofrequency treatment. I hope that I’ve answered your questions regarding what to do with your arms after arm liposuction. At this time, I would suggest just conservative treatment.  It is too early to come to any final conclusions.  Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery.)

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

Thank your for your question and photos! This results is typical for patients who have liposuction to the upper arms with some element of skin laxity (loose skin) to the area. I recommend firm pressure massage multiple times a day. You can also try lymphatic massage or Smoothshapes if it is available weekly. Massage will help "buff out" these minor contour irregularities . Even at 3 months post op, you are still healing! If this issue persists despite massage, chat with your plastic surgeon to see if they recommend further skin tightening to the area. Good luck!

Alicia Sigler, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Some bruising, lumps, and swollen tissue may be normal after a procedure like this. However, you may need to go back and consult with the surgeon who performed the lipo, and see what the problem may be.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Lumps can occur after liposuction.  It is possible that there are leftover fat deposits that would need additional suctioning.   Induration and hardness are components of the normal healing process. Swelling and healing as well as scar maturation can persist for 6 months and sometimes up to 1 year following liposuction. Massage and time may be all that is needed.  Sometimes additional surgery may be of benefit.  If there is anything suggestive of a fluid collection, hematoma, infection, or blood clot, see your plastic surgeon. 
Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear lleesa20,While there is always a chance for contour irregularities with liposuction, someone who takes their time and uses the appropriate sized cannulas should give you a superb result.I have all my patients wear compression garments and I use multiple sized cannulas to feather out the result. If you are concerned, I suggest you to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At three months post op you are still healing but it may be helpful for you to have massage performed to help with lymphatic drainage and to help the tissues to settle more evenly.  Visit with your board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and learn more about options to assist in healing.

Matthew A. DelMauro, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. (Keep in mind that an in-person consultation is necessary for the best advice.) I can see why you are concerned. It may take as long as 12 months for your body to heal and for the swelling to resolve completely. During that time, your surgical site will also change. Be patient, and follow up with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!
Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.

Francisco Sauceda, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for sharing your pictures .Please remember that on every surgery we do a big aggression on our patient’s bodies . And we (doctors and patients ) can’t control how your body heals .You need to heal completely, to make a proper evaluation . In the mean time probably lymphatic massages can be a good option for this skin.Please talk to your doctor about your concerns .Hope this helps

14 wks post arm lipo, still experiencing bumps, lumps, possible hardening and scarring of tissue, adhesion, discoloration.

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