Hard bulge in armpit after liposuction. Is this normal? (Photo)

Question

I recently had liposuction of my upper arms, axilla and bra roll on November 2nd. I know it’s only been 12 days out since surgery, but there’s this hard lump that’s pretty big that I’m concerned about. The doctor’s office said to just give it time and massage daily, but it doesn’t look like its going to go away. I still wear my compression garment everyday too. Can someone tell me if this is normal?

Mansour Bendago, FRCSC · Answer

Hi, thank you for your question.  Having areas of localized hardness after liposuction is very common in the first few weeks to even months.  They will slowly go away.  Massage does help a lot.  However based on your pictures I see a line under the lump.  This is most likely due to the compression garment you are wearing.  It seems like it is not being pulled all the way up and this may contribute to the bulge you are seeing.  Make sure all areas that had liposuction have compression and avoid lines from the garment.
Hope this has helped, and good luck.

Eduardo Ochoa, MD · Answer

Hello Lilliantee! Thank you for your question!

Your surgery is still very recent and its normal to feel hardened tissue and bulges in the first weeks, swelling is normal after any procedure and there are many treatments but nothing will prevent it completely. Be sure to follow all the postoperative care instructions and discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon. Apply local heat pads (not too hot) and massage 3 times a day could really help to soften the tissue and reduce swelling faster.
I hope this helps, wish you the best

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Lilliantee. I appreciate your concern, however it is still extremely early in your recovery journey after liposuction and swelling is certainly a factor in your case. As a precaution, I would still follow up with your plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation is normal.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Karthik Ram, MRCS, DNB · Answer

Hi thanks for sharing your question. Post liposuction localised areas of hardness or lump is quite common. Massaging the area, wearing your compression garment as advised would help. Regular follow up with your primary surgeon and discussing your concern would help.

Julie Khanna, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is very early in your recovery and hard-packed, localized swelling can be very normal.  At 6 weeks you are approximately 50% healed, however your full result will not be truly seen until 6 months to 1 year post.  If you have a sudden increase in your swelling, pain or redness, it is always best to check in with your surgeon for assessment.Dr. K.

Hard bulge in armpit after liposuction. Is this normal? (Photo)

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