Can Skin Rippling and Cellulite Post-Liposuction Be Eliminated?

n my practice I have found that the only way to improve cellulite is to attack it with several different noninvasive technologies to contract and smooth at different depths. I call it Maercks Multimodal Therapy or MMT. I have never seen any one technology have an impressive effect on its own. Remember for most interventions, who performs the procedure and how they do it is more important than a brand name!

All the best,

Rian A. Maercks M.D.

Thank you for sharing your concerns about the changes in your body's appearance following liposuction. It's great to hear that you initially saw impressive results, but I understand your concerns about the current state of your skin and body contour.

From your description, it sounds like what you are experiencing may not be cellulite, but rather fibrosis, which is a common side effect of liposuction. Fibrosis is the formation of hard, fibrous lumps of scar tissue that can occur as the body heals from the surgery. This can create a texture that may resemble cellulite and cause the skin to appear uneven or dimpled.

Additionally, the loose skin you are noticing and describing as "loosely connected to the underlying muscle" suggests that while the volume of fat was reduced, the skin's elasticity might not have fully retracted to the new contour of your body. Given your situation, a mini tummy tuck might be an option to consider. This procedure can help tighten the abdominal skin and potentially address some of the loose skin around your hips if it extends into that area.

Here are some steps you can take:

Consult with a Plastic Surgeon: Since these issues can be complex, I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess the areas of concern in person. They can determine if the unevenness is due to fibrosis and discuss options for addressing both the fibrous tissue and the loose skin.

Consider Additional Treatments: Treatments such as radiofrequency therapy, laser skin tightening, or ultrasound may help improve skin texture and firmness to some extent. However, the effectiveness of these treatments will depend on the degree of skin laxity and fibrosis.

Manage Expectations: It's important to have realistic expectations about what non-surgical treatments can achieve. While they may improve the appearance of the skin to some degree, they are often less transformative than surgical options.

Supportive Therapies: Engaging in regular moisturizing routines, maintaining hydration, and continuing a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support skin health and overall tissue recovery.

I'm sorry you're experiencing these side effects, and I hope you find a solution that helps you feel better about your body. The journey to feeling completely satisfied with surgical results can sometimes be longer than anticipated, but with the right interventions, significant improvements can be made.

I hope you get the results you desire and feel more comfortable and confident in your skin.

Sincerely,

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

Cellulite After Liposuction

Obesity, cellulite, stretch marks, a history of back and forth weight loss, or loose, sagging, inelastic skin are problems which would tend toward poor results during a liposuction. In fact, these problems may be worsened by this procedure and may be best addressed by other surgeries such as a leg or body lift (e.g. tummy tuck) to improve your appearance if appropriate (loose skin). Lymphatic massage may also be of benefit within the first year following liposuction.

For treatments that helps to treat your cellulite, there is a laser treatment called Cellulaze that was recently approved by the FDA last year. This procedure is proven to show better results after one session. The outcome lasts one year or longer, but you may need followup sessions depending on the results.

 

Unfortunately some people experience what you have when the skin lacks enough elasticity to shrink evenly after lipo. Your options are fairly limited because in general cellulite treatment is not yet a perfect science. You may wish to see someone who has experience with Thermage cellulite treatment, or the Accent laser. I have not been impressed with what I have seen presented for mesotherapy.

Most people are pretty stable in their recovery from liposuction at three months. Some take longer. Final results from liposuction require healthy contraction of the scar produced under the skin. This can take a long time to finalize. If you have questions go see your surgeon and voice your concerns.
I have found that massage and endermologie have helped some patients after liposuction. Going back to the gym and increasing muscle mass will improve the look of tightness in the legs and buttocks area.
Good luck.
Dr. Shah