1 month post op Neck Liposuction, there are hard knotty areas, ripples, and lines. Will this resolve itself? (photos)

Question

I had neck liposuction a month ago. I wore the compression strap and wrap religiously. 2 weeks in, about 30 cc of fluid was drained. A week later, another 15 cc drained. The fluid pocket has gone down but there are hard knotty areas, ripples, and lines. I still wear compression. At this point, it is worse than before I had the procedure and I am embarrassed to go in public. Will this resolve itself? Could the hardness be scar tissue already?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There appears to have been a seroma formation with resultant scar.  This can be treated with massage, ultrasound, and steroid injections.  Often, if the induration and rippling doesn't improve, you may need a surgeon to go in and release the neck and remove the scar tissue.  I suggest waiting at least 3-6 months for this however.  I would seek another opinion if your current physician is not offering options.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

If you're liposuction was accompanied by laser or ultrasound there may have been thermal damage to the connective tissue or skin that will be a reversible. The fact that you had fluid drained is suggestive of this. Nevertheless, you need to be patient and let the healing complete

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Unfortunately it appears as the in correct operative option was done/chosen. I believe you needed a neck lift vs liposuction of your neck... Now to correct can take multiple surgical interventions, i.e. neck lifting, ThermiSmooth RF sessions, fat grating...

1 month post op Neck Liposuction, there are hard knotty areas, ripples, and lines. Will this resolve itself? (photos)

Answers (3)