45, 150lbs, how do I get rid of skin discoloration, loose skin & lumpiness from lipo & tummy tuck? (Photos)

Hello, CBQ199. Thank you for your question regarding the issues you are experiencing following your liposuction and mini tummy tuck procedures in Colombia.

Thank you for providing your history and photos. It sounds like you are dealing with multiple concerns, including skin discoloration, lumpiness, and loose skin. Let's address each of these issues one by one:

Skin Discoloration: Skin discoloration following liposuction can be due to several factors, including melanin deposition or hemosiderin staining from bruising. For melanin deposition, a skin bleaching cream containing hydroquinone applied once nightly might help lighten the area over three or more months. This treatment is gradual and requires patience. For hemosiderin staining, which results from the iron in hemoglobin staining the skin after bruising, treatment with a vascular or YAG laser might be effective. It's important to consult with a plastic surgeon who has access to such lasers for an evaluation.

Loose Skin and Abdominal Rolls: The loose skin in your midsection and the rolls that appear with pants can sometimes occur after a mini tummy tuck if the skin retraction is not optimal or if there has been weight fluctuation after the surgery. A revision tummy tuck may be necessary to remove additional loose skin and tighten the abdominal area. During this procedure, permanent sutures might be used to plicate and tighten the abdominal muscles, especially if there is any remaining laxity.

Lumpiness and Hardness Under the Belly Button: The lumpiness and the hard area under your belly button are likely due to scar tissue formation, which is not uncommon after such procedures. This does not necessarily indicate a botched procedure, but it does suggest that the area is still healing or may require intervention to smooth out. Options to address this could include massage, use of ultrasound therapy, or possibly a minor revision surgery to remove or adjust the scar tissue.

Next Steps:

Consultation: Given the complexity of your concerns, I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in body contouring and revision surgeries. They can provide a thorough assessment and discuss appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
Revision Considerations: If a revision is advised, discuss all potential risks and benefits, including the expected recovery process and outcome.
It's crucial to have realistic expectations and understand that multiple factors can affect the final result, including your body's natural healing process. Seeking a second opinion might also give you more clarity and confidence in your next steps.

Good luck, and I hope this information helps you as you seek solutions to improve your post-surgical outcomes.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon