Why do I have such hard lumps after lipo? I use a Gua Sha, weekly lymphatic drainage massages, use castor oil packs. (Photos)

Question

I got liposuction May 30. It is now September 3, and my stomach is still hard and lumpy. I can prominently feel the lumps, at the one right over top of my stomach now has two very small infestations (you can only feel and not see them, thankfully.) I am just wondering if this will ever heal and go away, or am I just screwed and my Dr. was too rough? I love the way my tummy came out, I just want it to be smooth and not look like I swallowed some rocks! Is my stomach going yo be this way forever?

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Shaemarie.  I appreciate your frustration however it can take as long as six or seven months for all scarring to settle down. The fact that the contour of your stomach is is good is an excellent sign and with time and self massage the areas of concern should settle down. Stay in contact with your plastic surgeon and try to pay patient. Good luck.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you shaemarie99 for your question.  Swelling can last 6-8 months after surgery, which can cause the hard lumps and bumps.  Lymphatic massage can help.  I would recommend following your surgeons protocol and follow up to be examined.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It is too soon to tell what your final results will be. You have swelling, which can last 3-6 months after your procedure. I recommend adding hyperbaric oxygen and lymphatic massage along with your compression to help decrease swelling. To improve your final results, I also recommend adding vanquish for further fat removal, exilis/venus legacy for skin tightening, cellutone/z wave to make the skin smooth, remove scar tissue, and improve the skin’s appearance. However, a VASER revision may be needed for a toned, even result. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear shaemarie99,I would have to examine you but it appears that this is a contour irregularity after liposuction.  This happens often when areas the undergo liposuction are not feathered appropriately.
The good news is that it can be fixed and I have done so with good results before. The revision can often be done under local as well.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.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi sahemarieI'm not sure that your Gua Sha and castor oil are doing anything.  The lymphatic massage may be helping.Without an exam, it is hard to say what exactly is going on.  You didn't mention any operative specifics either.  It is getting late in your recovery so I suggest that you see your doctor for answers.sek

Why do I have such hard lumps after lipo? I use a Gua Sha, weekly lymphatic drainage massages, use castor oil packs. (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Uneven after surgery

Answer: Uneven after surgery

Answer: Lipo Lumps

Answer: Lipo Lumps

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Why do I have such hard lumps after lipo? I use a Gua Sha, weekly lymphatic drainage massages, use castor oil packs. (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Uneven after surgery

Answer: Uneven after surgery

Answer: Lipo Lumps

Answer: Lipo Lumps

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.