Can liposuction be done around scar tissue? (Photo)

Question

Can liposuction be dibe around scar tissue? Some doctors say yes and some say no.

Babak Moeinolmolki, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction can be done around scar tissue especially when you use ultrasound energy that can cut through scar tissue. Not sure if you are desiring liposuction of your abdomen or breast? For your belly, you should definitely consider a combination of liposuction along with skin tightening that can be performed at the same time. Please consider a consultation with a high definition provider.

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

Liposuction can sometimes be done around scar tissue, but it is not a simple yes-or-no decision. In the photo, there appears to be an abdominal scar or crease with some contour tethering, but a photo cannot show how thick, tight, or attached the scar tissue is under the skin.

Scarred areas can be firmer and less predictable, so aggressive liposuction directly through a tight or thin scarred zone can increase the risk of irregularity, skin injury, or worsening indentation. An in-person exam is needed to decide whether the issue is excess fat, scar tethering, loose skin, or the abdominal wall. Depending on the findings, cautious liposuction around the area may be reasonable, but scar release, scar revision, fat grafting, skin tightening, or a tummy tuck-type revision may be more appropriate.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and for providing context. Yes, liposuction can be performed around certain types of scar tissue, such as those from previous liposuction or a tummy tuck. In such cases, VASER liposuction technique is preferable as it effectively addresses scar tissue and fat while aiding skin contraction.
However, not all scars are suitable for liposuction. For instance, the midline scar you mentioned, possibly from an exploratory laparotomy, involving deeper layers and possibly permanent sutures, might not be amenable to liposuction, even with VASER.
Nonetheless, performing liposuction around such scars can still yield satisfactory results in improving body contour. It’s crucial to have a thorough consultation and evaluation to understand the possibilities and limitations in your specific case.
I hope this clarifies your query regarding liposuction around scar tissue. Best of luck!
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. Liposuction can be done around scar tissue but it is more challenging as the scar tissue makes fat removal harder.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, it can be done but it is harder.

Of course, an “in person” consultation with a skilled board certified plastic surgeon is necessary.

Best of luck !

Garrett Jones, DO · Answer

Liposuction around scar tissue can be challenging, as the procedure may disrupt the scar and affect healing. It’s important to consult with an experienced and skilled surgeon who can assess your specific situation and provide guidance based on your medical history and the nature of the scar.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Liposuction can be tried. Some scars allow the cannula to go through and some do not. Scars that go all the way through your abdominal wall are less likely to let the cannula pass through. Otherwise, fat removal can be done fairly close to the scar.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The short answer to your question is yes, liposuction can be performed around scar tissue.  However more information is needed about your concerns as well as goals for surgery to determine the correct approach for you.  Going around scar tissue can create complications as well as sub par results depending on the situation.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

To give you a useful answer, it would be helpful if you could give us complete information. My best guess is you’ve had previous Liposuction that left score tissue and you’re interested in having some type of revision procedure.
It’s definitely possible to push and Liposuction cannula through any remaining fat with or without score tissue. Whether that’s a good idea or not is a different story.
It would be helpful if you could post proper before and after pictures if you’ve had previous surgery and ask us what your concern is and what you’re hoping to achieve.
Consider reposting, following up with any previous provider or having in person consultations with other plastic surgeons community.
Putting a little more thought and effort into your post, allows us to give you more meaningful answers.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

William A. Ross, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. Performing liposuction near scar tissue requires careful consideration and evaluation but it can be safely performed.Scar tissue can have varying degrees of vascularity, thickness, and adherence to underlying structures. Liposuction in the vicinity of scar tissue carries a potential risk of damaging blood vessels, nerves, or causing irregularities in the surrounding tissues.A study reported that liposuction performed adjacent to a scar can be safe and effective when specific considerations are taken into account, including scar maturity, vascularity of the scar, adherence of the scar to deeper structures, and the surgeon's expertise.During a consultation, we will carefully assess the scar tissue, considering factors such as its location, thickness, and adherence. We will also evaluate the patient's medical history, consider any previous complications related to scar healing and develop an appropriate surgical plan to minimize risks and optimize results.In conclusion, liposuction near scar tissue can be performed safely under appropriate conditions. A comprehensive evaluation by a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial to determine the safety and feasibility. I hope this helps.

Can liposuction be done around scar tissue? (Photo)

Answers (10)

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