Hard Lump in Lip After Fat Transfer?

Question

How long should I wait to have a hard lump in lip treated after fat transfer? Procedure done mid Dec 2012. Lump is hard and not going away with massage. Dr says to wait it out. It's ugly and pulls the lip. Steroid shot? If so-what takes care of it without making a bigger problem?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The area of fat necrosis in the lip will probably improve with time.   The area can be excised as well.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

You most likely have some degree of fat necrosis.  These lumps typically get hard, then over time soften and shrink significantly.  Your doctor's suggestion to wait it out is the most reasonable option if it is not significantly deforming.  Steroid injection does not come without risk.  While it may shrink it faster, it can leave a dent or cause loss of skin color.  You have to seriously weigh your options before proceeding. All the best.

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear Blondie22,

	
		I would ask your doctor what he/she thinks
	
		If the lump is getting better then it will continue to improve
	
		A very dilute steroid injection may also help


	Best regards,

	Nima Shemirani

Raj S. Ambay, MD · Answer

The hard area is fat necrosis. That is to say a piece of fat that did not recieve blood flow and died. It needs to be excised. No other way...So Sorry!

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

At just two months after fat grafting it is too early to do anything just yet. While it can be injected by steroids be aware that could cause the opposite problem...fat resorption and a divot in the lip. I would give it at least 3 to 4 months before doing a very dilute steroid injection. An alternative is a 5-FU injection which has no risk of too much atrophy.

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