How Long Can Bruises, Seromas and Lumps After Liposuction Last?

Bruising and swelling are normal in the suctioned areas and usually increase slightly after the removal of any tape or foam. The bruising will decrease over 3-4 weeks, but may last as long as 6 weeks. The majority of the swelling will be gone within the first 3-4 weeks. However it may take several more months to disappear completely. The compression garment helps reduce the swelling, and the longer it is worn, the more quickly the process will proceed. As you heal, the suctioned area may feel “lumpy” and irregular. This, too, decreases with time, and massaging those areas, like you have been doing, will hasten their softening.

Bruising after surgery can be improved with Arnica ointment. I use Bruisestick ointment for localized areas for my patients. 

IT truly depends on an accurate diagnosis of the lumps, bumps, bruisies and seroma. For example if the bruises are truly hemosiderin deposits, it may take up to two years to improve or become stabe. Seromas can be chronic or be confused with fat cysts.

If your bruises are persistent after a few to several weeks, then possibly the iron from the red blood cells is causing staining of the dermis, similar to a tattoo. Some lasers can improve this coloration, but it usually is not permanent on the upper body. It may take many months for it to resolve. Lower body, especially legs, are areas where the dermal discoloration can be permanent. Seromas or swellings from build up of serum may need to be drained, but often are temporary without treatment.

Scar tissue remains in the treated area for at least 6 months, and sometimes even longer. Be patient, as time passes, it will improve, likely whether or not you massage. As far as a seroma, if it is significant in size, I usually aspirate them in the office with a needle-this may hasten resolution, although they can recur. Aggressive massage like you are doing could even aggravate the seroma. Discoloration from bruising usually fades over time, rarely a subtle mottled type of pigmentation (hemosiderin staining) can be permanent from severe bruising.