What could this large lump be over belly after lipo? (Photo)

Question

I had stomach and axillary liposuction almost 2 months ago. I have a large, hard lump over my belly button, and one under each arm. They are approx. 2"x3". They are very painful, to touch, wearing pants that rub stomach, or just sitting doing nothing, it is painful. Dr. Tried draining 2 weeks ago, and nothing came out. He seems to act like nothing serious, but I am just anxious. Hoping someone can have some advice. Picture hard to see lump, but it is there!

Carlos Mata, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your questioning your photo. Without the physical exam it's nearly impossible to tell exactly what it is but based on your surgeon's attempts to remove fluid it is likely not a fluid collection or seroma. It may be fat necrosis or dead fat or just swelling with inflammation. Give it time and follow your surgeons recommendations. In the meantime, scar massage is recommended.Good luck.All the best,Carlos Mata MD, MBA, FACSboard certified Plastic Surgeon

Richard H. Fryer, MD · Answer

Hard lumps after liposuction are typically areas of fibrosis (scarring) that result from the trauma to the tissue.  I tell all of my patients to "expect" this after liposuction for several months.I have my patients use a rolling pin (yes a rolling pin) to roll over the areas with the fibrosis to help break up the scar tissue.  You can use the rolling pin 3-5 times a day for several minutes each time.  Simply roll over the top of your clothing in the areas of firmness.Continue to follow up with your surgeon to make sure that these hard lumps resolve; it can take 5-9 months.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There can be tenderness, firmness and swelling for 3-6 months after your procedure. For liposuction after care, I recommend adding hyperbaric oxygen and lymphatic massage along with your compression to help decrease swelling. To improve your final results, I also recommend adding vanquish for further fat removal, exilis/venus legacy for skin tightening, cellutone/z wave to make the skin smooth, remove scar tissue, and improve the skin’s appearance. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Ricardo Ventura, MD · Answer

Hello, thanks for your question and provided information as well.. Are you using a compression garment? You're still swollen, but besides that you need to add compression on the lumpy area to decrease edema and swelling.

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

It is difficult to discern in your photo exactly the issue that you are concerned about. An examination would be needed to better be able to determine exactly what this is. HOWEVER, by history and timeline (as well as the lack of any fluid obtained on aspiration), these areas most probably represent inflammation which does occur normally with liposuction to variable extents. It can take up to 6 months or more for them to resolve or stabilize. Massaging the areas a few times a day may help. Long term the discomfort will resolve.Steven Turkeltaub, MD

Mehdi K. Mazaheri, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. I'm sorry you are having this issue. Without an exam I can't give you a very accurate response. If it's hard it is probably not fluid(seroma vs blood) that is why nothing could be aspirated. It's most likely inflammation and/or scar tissue if it's tender. I would massage the areas several times a day and try warm compresses. Obviously follow all of your surgeon's recommendations. Good luck. DrMaz

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

Lumps should be fat necrosis or residual fat left behind. You should consider a consultation with a Vaser specialist prior to proceeding with a Vaser liposuction revision.

What could this large lump be over belly after lipo? (Photo)

Answers (7)

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