Should I be concerned about a small hard tender bruise 13 days after liposuction to my abdomen? (photos)

Question

I'm 13 days out and still swollen but concerned about a hard bruise by my belly button. I wear a garment with a foam pad under every day and night.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Bruising Concerns after LiposuctionWhat you have is expected during the recovery process after liposuction. Bruising and swelling are normal in the suctioned areas and usually increase slightly after the removal of any tape or foam. The bruising will decrease over 3-4 weeks, but may last as long as 6 weeks. The majority of the swelling will be gone within the first 3-4 weeks. However it may take 6-9 months to disappear completely. The compression garment helps reduce the swelling, and the longer it is worn, the more quickly the process will proceed. If you are concerned or if it does not improve, speak to your plastic surgeon to get it examined.

Marwan R. Khalifeh, MD · Answer

Yes, bruising is
normal after liposuction and your bruising looks normal. Pictures do not tell the entire story. If it feels
like there is fluid below the black and blue area, it may be a hematoma, a
small collection of blood. If it is just a bruise, it will go away in a couple
of weeks. Bruising usually migrates inferiorly, turns yellow, and then
resolves.

Consult your surgeon, trust his advice, and be
patient.

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

That is way too early for concerns about bruising.  Consider Arnica Montana to assist with swelling and bruising.  Best Wishes!!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

If this was three months than YES I would be concerned. But at this early date I am not concerned./ But best to see your surgeon IN PERSON..//

Eric A. Weiss, MD, FACS · Answer

Small lumps and bumps, as well as bruising after liposuction is completely normal. Liposuction is a blunt type injury with significant tissue trauma and bruising. The area around your belly button has fibrous bands as well as more blood vessles than other areas; this increases the risk of bruising. Massage the area, and it should resolve over time. Nothing to worry about.Eric Weiss MD

Should I be concerned about a small hard tender bruise 13 days after liposuction to my abdomen? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Should I be concerned about a small hard tender bruise 13 days after liposuction to my abdomen?

Answer: Should I be concerned about a small hard tender bruise 13 days after liposuction to my abdomen?

Answer: Bruising after liposuction

Answer: Bruising after liposuction

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Should I be concerned about a small hard tender bruise 13 days after liposuction to my abdomen? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Should I be concerned about a small hard tender bruise 13 days after liposuction to my abdomen?

Answer: Should I be concerned about a small hard tender bruise 13 days after liposuction to my abdomen?

Answer: Bruising after liposuction

Answer: Bruising after liposuction

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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.