Fibrosis - 3 months post-op, do I need surgery to fix this issue? (Photos)

Question

I’m 3 months post op and Ive developed fibrosis in my stomach area (or what I think is fibrosis). I’ve been giving myself daily massages for 20 mins after a hot shower, and I’ve begun using the ‘cupping’ technique (negative pressure) for 15 minutes after the massage, followed by 10 minutes of applying a cold pack. Do I have hope of reducing my fibrosis? Do I need surgery to fix this? I’m also looking to get radio freq. therapy.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

All injuries and surgeries heal by scarification or fibrosis. This is not some pathologic or abnormal response. What you have is an irregularity in your results. Don't waste money on non-surgical remedies. Wait another 3 months to ensure most of the swelling is gone and find yourself an expert in revision liposuction who uses the SAFElipo technique (not a machine, a technique!). If the surgeon doesn't know what SAFElipo is, or who conceptualized it and taught the rest of the world (Simeon Wall, Jr., M.D.), move on to someone else.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Massage may help, but time will be the best treatment. The swelling may persist for 6 months and sometimes up to a year, so you do have to be patient to appreciate the results. You should trust your plastic surgeon to recommend the best postoperative instructions for you to obtain optimal results. It is of paramount importance that the patient follow postoperative instructions to the letter and that the compression garment is worn as instructed. When the proper postoperative regimen is followed, the risk for contour irregularity is exceedingly small.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Ashleiggghhh,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

What you describe is normal postoperative conditions with scar tissue formation three months after liposuction. The procedure was done somewhat uneven and this is your remaining fat distribution. Massage, cupping, cold or hot packs nor radio frequency will change your fat distribution.

You didn’t really describe what your concern is.

What most people call fibrosis is a combination of too much fat removed in an uneven fashion with the formation of scar tissue.

Further surgery causes more scar tissue.

Fortunately or unfortunately Liposuction is a permanent and fairly irreversible procedure.

I suggest following up with your provider or having a few in person consultations with local board-certified plastic surgeons.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

Amit Gupta, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

These are also known as seroma and I would suggest that you should wait for at least six months before considering any revision procedure while you can continue with radio frequency treatment and massages.

Fibrosis - 3 months post-op, do I need surgery to fix this issue? (Photos)

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Answer: After liposuction

Answer: After liposuction

Answer: Good Afternoon, Thank you for question.

Answer: Good Afternoon, Thank you for question.

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Fibrosis - 3 months post-op, do I need surgery to fix this issue? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: After liposuction

Answer: After liposuction

Answer: Good Afternoon, Thank you for question.

Answer: Good Afternoon, Thank you for question.

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction Revision

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