Liposuction Lumps 3 Years Post-op

Question

I had liposuction on my stomach three years ago, and it has never been even. What bothers me even more are the areas left with hard bumps all under the skin.  I'm 21 years old and psychologically devastated because of this.  Is there any procedure that can be done to fix this? My stomach was really the only place that ever held fat and there is no where else on my body that I can imagine taking a fat graft from.  I just dont know what to do.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Lumps can occur after liposuction.  Fortunately, there are options.  I would advise a technique that I use known as micro-sculpt liposuction, in which a tiny cannula is used to balance out the remaining contour.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns about the uneven results and hard bumps you are experiencing after your stomach liposuction three years ago. It's understandable that this situation is distressing, especially at your age.

VASER Hi-Def Liposuction might indeed be a suitable option for you. VASER is a type of liposuction that uses ultrasonic technology to break apart fat cells while preserving the surrounding tissue. It's particularly effective for smoothing out lumps and irregularities because it can precisely target the uneven areas. Additionally, VASER is known for its ability to help tighten the skin by stimulating collagen production, which might benefit the areas where you feel there is unevenness and hardness.

Since you mentioned a lack of alternative fat deposit areas for grafting, VASER Hi-Def Liposuction could be especially advantageous as it focuses on enhancing the existing contours rather than relying on transferring fat from other areas.

Here are a few steps I recommend:

Consult with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon: Find a surgeon who specializes in revision liposuction and specifically has experience with VASER Hi-Def technology. This surgeon can assess your abdomen, determine the extent of the scar tissue or fibrosis, and confirm whether VASER Hi-Def Liposuction is the best course of action.

Discuss All Options: In your consultation, discuss all possible treatment options. Although VASER is a strong candidate for your needs, the surgeon might suggest other complementary therapies that can help achieve a smoother, more uniform appearance.

Psychological Support: Given the psychological impact this has had on you, consider speaking with a counselor or therapist to help manage the emotional distress related to your body image concerns.

Prepare for Recovery: Understand that revision procedures can sometimes have longer recovery times and might require a detailed post-operative plan to ensure the best results.

Addressing the uneven results from your previous surgery is certainly possible, and with the right approach, you can see significant improvements in both the appearance and feel of your abdomen.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Scott Tucker, MD · Answer

Sometimes after liposuction there are areas that did not get suctioned adequately.  This can usually be taken care of by doing more liposuction in the high areas. 
Usually, if you go back to your original surgeon, there will be a price break on the cost of the procedure, depending upon that particular offices' policies. 
Check with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area to see what would be best for your paricular situation.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction is a safe, popular, and effective way to contour the body. Patients should be aware of the recovery process after liposuction. Immediately after the surgery, they will experience a moderate amount of pain, swelling, and bruising.

	In your case, it is possible that those lumps may be due to excess swelling or scar tissue as your body's reaction to the previous surgery. Your best bet is to be evaluated by a board-certified plastic surgeon with a great deal of experience in liposuction, tummy tucks, and abdominal contouring. They will be able to examine you and determine which combination of treatments will help you meet your goals.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is very unusual to have lumps or bumps three years after liposuction.  While this may happen initially as the tissues heal, it usually improves after a few months.

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