Large lumps and protrusions 6 months after lip lift, please help (Photo)

Question

I had an upper lip lift surgery 6 months ago. A large protrusion the size of the tip of my pinky is very noticable. I've had Kenelog injected into it over a month ago and there's no difference. It looks very odd and I'm ashamed to go out. Please help.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the complications you're experiencing following your upper lip lift surgery. Here are some steps and considerations that might help you address the issue:

1. **Follow-Up with Your Surgeon**: The first step is to schedule a follow-up appointment with the surgeon who performed the procedure. They are most familiar with your case and can provide the most specific advice.

2. **Seek a Second Opinion**: If you are not satisfied with the response or progress with your current surgeon, consider seeking a second opinion from another board-certified plastic surgeon. Sometimes a fresh perspective can offer new solutions.

3. **Further Treatment Options**:
   - **Additional Steroid Injections**: Sometimes more than one injection of Kenalog (triamcinolone acetonide) is needed to see significant improvement. Discuss with your surgeon whether additional injections might be beneficial.
   - **Laser Therapy**: Certain types of laser treatments can help reduce the appearance of scar tissue and protrusions. This could be an option to explore with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who specializes in laser therapy.
   - **Surgical Revision**: In some cases, a minor surgical revision might be necessary to correct the issue. This could involve removing excess scar tissue or adjusting the previous surgery's results.

4. **Non-Surgical Treatments**:
   - **Silicone Gel or Sheets**: These are often recommended for scar management and can help flatten and soften scar tissue over time.
   - **Massage Therapy**: Gentle massage of the area can sometimes help to break down scar tissue. Make sure to get instructions from your surgeon on how to do this properly to avoid causing further damage.

5. **Camouflage Techniques**: In the interim, you might consider using makeup techniques to help conceal the protrusion if it makes you feel more comfortable going out.

6. **Emotional Support**: It’s understandable to feel distressed about this situation. Consider talking to a therapist or counselor who can provide support as you navigate this challenging time.

Remember, healing and scar maturation can take time, and what you are experiencing might still improve with appropriate interventions. It's crucial to keep open communication with your healthcare providers and explore all available options.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

It does look like a large granuloma or ball of scar tissue. If kenalog has not helped, it may be worth exploring debulking that area thought the same incision. This would likely require additional kenalog injections following the procedure, but may be worth it if the area is large enough.

Large lumps and protrusions 6 months after lip lift, please help (Photo)

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Large lumps and protrusions 6 months after lip lift, please help (Photo)

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