Yellow Discoloration of Skin - Is my Compression Binder Too Tight?

Question

I've been wearing my compression garment and binder daily and the swelling has moved to my pubic area. I understand this is normal but the skin around there has a yellow discoloration. I sat for a long period of time so I am wondering if the ab binder is impairing blood circulation. Please help! Thanks!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Based on your description, you do not have anything to be concerned about. Swelling the pubic area is &ldquo;dependent swelling&rdquo; after long period of sitting. The yellow discoloration is the last &ldquo;stage&rdquo; of bruising (bruises change color from black/blue to yellowish over time)-  the discoloration will disappear over the course of one week.

	I hope this helps.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

swelling and bruising can move by gravity from the abdomen to the pubis.  Bruising usually turns from the darker color to the yellowish color before fading but sometimes all you see is the yellow color.  If the bruise is in a lower area than where the liposuction took place, then usually the bruising doesn't hurt. See your doctor if there is pain in the area to be evaluated.

Jason Hess, MD · Answer

The skin discoloration may be consistent with bruising.  When blood vessels are traumatized from any surgery or injury, blood escapes from capillaries.  When hemoglobin (an iron-containing component of red blood cells) is broken down, it usually first appears blue or red.  As it is further broken down and reabsorbed by your body, it may turn brown or yellow.  This is likely what you are seeing.  The pubic area normally swells because this is the lowest that blood and swelling may travel.  Gravity from standing pulls the fluid to the pubis and upper thigh.  Thus, it collects in this region and will resolve with time.  For a more detailed interpretation, please include a photo.  I hope this helps!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Usually a yellowish discoloration is related to the color of bruising that goes away with time.  But if you are concerned I would speak with your surgeon.

Michael Tomcik, MD · Answer

Yellow to green discoloration is a normal appearance of bruising after any liposuction. Gravity makes the bruises go to the lowest area. I know that it is very disconcerting to see these large areas of discoloration, but they are totally harmless.

Yellow Discoloration of Skin - Is my Compression Binder Too Tight?

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Yellow Discoloration of Skin - Is my Compression Binder Too Tight?

Answers (7)

Answer: Binder and skin color

Answer: Binder and skin color

Answer: Skin discoloration after smart lipo is normal

Answer: Skin discoloration after smart lipo is normal

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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