Is bruising and ecchymosis normal after liposuction? (Photos)

Question

I got liposuction July 26,2018, and I have large areas that look like bruises and Ecchymosis, my doctor said to put this gel on it and it will heal but all it has done is blistered and no healing has happened, what do y’all think?

Paul Vitenas, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you very much for your question and
photographs. Swelling and bruising are common after liposuction. However, from
your pictures, it does not look like you are dealing with bruises. It appears
that part of the skin is damaged and necrotic. This will require immediate
attention from a board certified plastic surgeon, experienced in wound care and
scar reduction. I recommend scheduling an in-person examination with a
qualified physician right away to ensure proper medical care and close
monitoring of your recovery.

Kristi Hustak, MD · Answer

Bruising is absolutely normal after liposuction but you appear to have significant burns, which is a devastating complication from liposuction, particularly in relation to energy based devices like laser and ultrasound liposuction.

If your procedure wasn’t performed by a board certified plastic surgeon, your provider may not recognize this and may not be trained in the management of burns. As such, I would get an opinion from one certified by the board of plastic surgery emergently. You need aggressive burn management for the best possible outcome after this. These second and possible third degree burns (which are significant) can have consequences such as Infection and bad scarring if not managed early and appropriately with wound care and possible additional surgeries to remove dead skin. 
Best wishes for recovery and i am so sorry this happened to you. Please seek an opinion from a board certified plastic surgeon if not done already, ASAP

Dr. Hustak

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend following up with your Doctor today for a formal evaluation. This needs hyperbaric oxygen to promote healing. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Emily B. McLaughlin, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and the photos. This does not look like bruising. The dark areas that are partially peeled away revealing pink tissue look like damaged skin without sufficient blood supply. You need to be seen by a physician that can recommend wound care as infection and scarring are major concerns. Regretfully, scarring will likely result despite aggressive wound care at this time. Good luck and I hope you find some answers.

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi aliciaI am sorry to hear about this and see your pics.I think you must have had liposuction with a device that uses heat (laser, vaser, ultrasound, etc.).  You look like you have severe burns in addition to bruising (bruises = ecchymosis).I recommend that you get back to your doctor and get some answers and get a second opinion.  You need to be treated aggressively for the burns to optimize your results.I urge you to get going on this.sek

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Is bruising and ecchymosis normal after liposuction? (Photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Bruising after liposuction

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