Is this normal bruising or the beginning of necrosis from bbl? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I am 8 days post-op from bbl. My bum is extremely swollen but incrementally improving. I have an appttmt with md in three days, but as it's the start of the weekend I thought I'd check here to see if the bruising in the lower half of my buttock where the fat was not injected is experiencing normal bruising. It's getting darker and almost blackish and taking in an orange peel design (but skin texture appears normal). Should I be worried or is it normal for the bruising to present so fiercely?

Jose Perez-Gurri, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi. From your photos it seems absolutely normal. However, a personal exam with your surgeon is what's indicated. Good luck, Dr PG

George Marosan, MD · Answer

You show a limited photo of the right side (?) only. You do have significant echymoses or bruising which is very unusual with fat grafting to the buttocks. The orange peel look is an indication of dermal or skin swelling as well. If it was very swollen, firm, you can expect some fat loss. It seems that you experienced bleeding into the grafted area which accounts for the extensive bruising. This will go away in the next 2-3 weeks, but stay in close contact with your surgeon to make sure you do not develop a hematoma, seroma or fat necrosis. All these can leave you with irregularities in the long run. Good luck.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation, discomfort, bruising and irregularities are normal.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Just from the photo, it looks like bruising which is pretty significant. You should check in with your doctor to make sure everything is ok.

Is this normal bruising or the beginning of necrosis from bbl? (Photo)

Answers (4)