Can liposuction be done in areas where scars exist from previous surgeries?

Question

One scar is from appendectomy, one from back surgery done through abdomen and one was a lipoma removal (on left saddlebag area). Could possible adhesions resulting from these surgeries interfere with liposuction success?

Robert P. Schmid, MD · Answer

Thanks for ur question! Liposuction can greatly improve the appearance of depressed scars by going under the scar with the right tool & freeing up the scar tissue. However, ur board certified plastic surgeon should evaluate ur abdomen to make sure that there r no underlying hernias from ur previous surgeries, which could b very dangerous if liposuction is performed. Also, u may b a better candidate for an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), which would cut all of the scars out & replace them with a much lower scar, as well as remove the excess skin & fat & tighten the muscle. Good luck!

David Hansen, MD · Answer

Liposuctioning in the areas of fibrous tissue such as previous surgeries or lipos does well but needs an experienced lipo doc and usually the PAL.

Marshall T. Partington, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction
can certainly be done in areas of previous scarring. We need to carefully
assess preoperatively for the presence of hernias or scar adhesions that could
cause significant complications. Experience is critical in choosing a board certified plastic
surgeon.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is where I use vaser or smartlipo to break through the scars.  People fear hernias however, they often are not damaged by liposuction (laser has more risk than the ultrasound).  Properly performed tumescent technique can prevent any issues and this should not be problematic.  If concerned, ultrasound can be performed prior to the procedure over the scar to ensure nothing is embedded in it.  Best, Dr. Emer.

John Nguyen, MD, FACS · Answer

In general, yes liposuction can be performed in areas of previous surgery.  A thorough exam can help determine if there is significant scar tissue in these areas that may impact the ability to contour the region.   Scar revisions or release may be needed.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for an excellent question. A picture and exam would be required to advise in your particular case, but my concerns would be incisional hernias, and the fact that previous scars may not allow the skin to release and relax in a aesthetically pleasing way.  Sometimes, excisional procedures like a tummy tuck are better.  Please seek the opinion of a board certified plastic surgeon, good luck.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

The operative strategy by the surgeon includes evaluating abdominal wall scarring from previous surgery. This is not a contraindication to liposuction. Depressed scars will look better after the procedure.

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi radlooExcellent question.performing lipo where scar tissue is present is usually more difficult.  The scar tissue is hard to get through, and the fat tends to stick to it more than in other tissues.  Additionally, any abdominal surgery scars must be carefully examined to ensure that there are no hernias present.I incorporate Lipotherme (laser) in these instances with excellent results. The heat generated from the laser allows the cannulas to glide through the scar tissue, and melts the fat.  Additionally, it helps tighten the skin too.Hope this helps.Se

Erika Sato, MD, FACS · Answer

Technically liposuction can be done in areas that have a scar from a previous procedure. Adhesions do exist beneath the scar and can make the work more difficult. Make sure you see a PS and they examine you to ensure there is no hernia in the areas. Scars can be tethered to underlying structures making them appear sunken in comparison to surrounding fat. This sometimes can make areas look "bigger" that they really are. If this is your concern, you may actually need fat grating in those areas.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Abdominal scars are typically not a contraindication for having liposuction. There are exceptions, such as potential underlying hernias, though these are generally not related to scar tissue.After abdominal surgery, scar tissue can cause skin retractions, which can alter the outcome of liposuction. Talk to a plastic surgeon to get an accurate assessment to see if liposuction would be appropriate for you.Best of luck,Mats Hagstrom, M.D.

Can liposuction be done in areas where scars exist from previous surgeries?

Answers (10)

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