What non surgical options can improve the skin after bad abdominal liposuction? (photos)

Question

I'm a 40 year old lady, who has a c-section for one child. I had lipo aged 17, twice, after the first result was uneven. Ever since I've had rippling of the skin, weird bumps, and the skin just looks old and wrinkly before its time. I'm considering HIFO and micro needling, but would be keen to know other options that don't involve going under the knife.

Jules Feledy, Jr., MD · Answer

Hello. You are very critical of yourself! The overall shape is very nice. It may be hard to see the waviness and irregularities from the photos. Nonetheless, the question is what to do now. You had liposuction at age 17, which was 23 years ago. You have had a pregnancy - which is hard on a woman's body - and a c-section. These points are important for several reasons. First, any waviness is a result of variable fat removal between the attachments (septae) between the skin and the abdominal wall and at this point are fibrotic. Second, with time there is aging. This will make the skin changes more apparent. So, the solution? I am not as optimistic about non-invasive methods. Microneedling is likely to be superficial. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has been shown to be very effective. One modality that might be helpful is EmSculpt. We have had success with that in our office. Although you may not want a surgical option, you might consider a mini-tummy tuck and then use some of the fat to fill the skin depressions in those areas that are most troubling. Lastly, please take some comfort in knowing that you have a very nice overall shape. Respectfully, Jules A Feledy, Jr, MD American Board of Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Reza Alamouti, MD, FRCS · Answer

Hello,Thank you for the question.Unfortunately there is not any non surgical options that can improve lumps and rippling.I advise to massage the entire abdomen regularly. The bumps is because of the internal scarring and perhaps retained fat necrosis( unhealthy fat cells).Best wishes

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Kind996241,I would have to examine you but it appears that this is a contour irregularity after liposuction. This happens often when areas the undergo liposuction are not feathered appropriately.
The good news is that it can be fixed and I have done so with good results before. While there is always a chance for contour irregularities with liposuction, someone who takes their time and uses the appropriate sized cannulas should give you a superb result.I have all my patients wear compression garments and I use multiple sized cannulas to feather out the result
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

What non surgical options can improve the skin after bad abdominal liposuction? (photos)

Answers (3)