What can be done to treat this discoloration in my abdomen where liposuction was performed? (Photo)

Question

I'm seeing bad discolouration / darkening around lower abodmen where liposuction was performed there is still swelling/fibrosis which is lumpy but the colour is affecting me more than anything.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

The photo shows noticeable dark discoloration across the lower abdomen with some contour irregularity. After liposuction, this can be related to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, residual bruising/hemosiderin staining, skin irritation, pressure/friction, swelling, or fibrosis, but the exact cause cannot be diagnosed from a photo alone.

The first step is an in-person review with your surgeon, and often a dermatologist if the color change persists. If the skin is fully healed, options may include time, scar/pigment-directed creams, gentle lymphatic massage or fibrosis treatment if your surgeon approves, and in selected cases laser or light-based treatments performed by someone experienced with your skin type. Avoid aggressive massage, peels, or bleaching creams until you are examined, because some treatments can worsen pigmentation. If there is increasing pain, warmth, drainage, spreading redness, or skin breakdown, you should be assessed urgently.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Gregarious107285,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Garrett Jones, DO · Answer

Discoloration can result from various factors such as bruising, inflammation, or changes in blood flow. Here are some potential approaches you might consider:
1.) Give It Time: Discoloration after liposuction is common and often resolves on its own as your body heals. It can take several weeks or even months for the discoloration to fade completely.
2.) Follow Post-Operative Care Instructions: Your surgeon likely provided you with specific post-operative care instructions. Follow these closely to promote proper healing and minimize complications.
3.) Avoid Sun Exposure: Sun exposure can worsen discoloration and potentially lead to hyperpigmentation. Protect the treated area from the sun's rays by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing.
4.) Topical Treatments: Your doctor might recommend topical treatments that could help with healing and reducing discoloration. These could include skin lightening creams, arnica-based creams (for bruising), or other products that encourage skin regeneration.
5.) Massage: Gentle massage of the treated area, as advised by your doctor, might help improve circulation and promote the drainage of excess fluid, potentially reducing discoloration.
6.) Arnica Supplements: Some people believe that arnica supplements can help reduce bruising and discoloration. However, you should consult your doctor before using any supplements.
7.) Stay Hydrated and Eat a Healthy Diet: Proper hydration and a well-balanced diet can support your body's healing processes, potentially aiding in the reduction of discoloration.
8.) Medication: If the discoloration is accompanied by pain or discomfort, your doctor might recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe medications to manage these symptoms.
9.) Consult a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon: If the discoloration persists or if you're concerned about it, it's a good idea to consult a dermatologist or the plastic surgeon who performed the liposuction. They can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatments based on your specific needs.
Remember, any treatment should be discussed with a medical professional who can evaluate your individual situation and provide personalized advice. This answer is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

It appears that you still have swelling and are using your abdominal binder.  How long ago was your procedure performed?
Dr. Taranow

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

You are bruised from bleeding that happened during the liposuction.
Plastic surgeons usually inject a solution of local anesthesia including the drug Epinephrine prior to doing liposuction.
It’s called tumescent solution.
It takes about 10 to 15 minutes for the drug Epinephrine to be fully effective which creates vasoconstriction and minimizes bleeding during liposuction.
Some surgeons don’t want to wait because operating room time is expensive and start doing the liposuction right away. when that’s the case patients have more blood loss and blood eventually breaks down into various different molecules. The hemoglobin in red blood cells breaks down through multiple intermediaries that are highly pigmented before it finally becomes bile. these pigmented intermediaries is what we see as the manifestation of the bruising.
It takes the body time to clear out the ruptured red blood cells that were left from the procedure.
When there’s very little blood loss patients can see bruising for 7 to 10 days. typical or moderate amounts of bruising may last for 12 to 14 days.
When there is a lot of bleeding and surgeons didn’t wait any time or use insufficient amounts of tumescent solution people can stay bruised for a few months.
The leftover blood also increases inflammation which makes the area warm and feel firm and lumpy.
The inflammation will settle down and the scar tissue that’s being formed will eventually mature and become soft.
In almost 100% of cases all the bruising will eventually go away. How long it takes kind of depends on how the procedure was performed and how much you bled during surgery.
You didn’t include how far out you are from the procedure so we can’t really give you an assessment.
Follow up with your provider if you have questions or concerns.
In most cases it takes about six weeks for patients to see something resembling final liposuction results.
Final results are typically seen around three months.
It’s not uncommon for people to be a little disappointed or concerned about Liposuction outcome within the first few weeks because swelling and the body‘s response to the procedure is different than what the final results will look like.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

What can be done to treat this discoloration in my abdomen where liposuction was performed? (Photo)

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