Dents and bumps 6 months after liposuction - is this swelling? (photos)

Question

I've had lipo on my flanks, inner and outer thighs and banana roll (1,7 liters) almost 6 months ago. I'm very unhappy with the left side of my leg/butt. I have a dent next to the butt crease that looks like my PS sucked too deep? And the area above, left outer side of my butt was sucked too little? Based on the drawn areas my PS should have also suctioned the outside of my butt. However, the outside of my butt feels thicker now. Can this still be swelling & still improve THAT MUCH?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding dents and bumps six months after liposuction and whether it is swelling. Most liposuction results have resolved at 6-8 weeks. It is possible that some swelling can occur at approximately 4-6 months. However, if you're at the six months mark, the results that appear are consistent with the permanent results. If the areas of indentation bother you, you may need further liposuction and fat transfer to correct some of the defects. For areas of indentation or depression, you may consider a fat transfer. Alternatively, you may consider liposuction around the edges down to the indentation level. If levels are too raised, these areas need liposuction. All these should be addressed with your plastic surgeon and carefully marked before surgery. Please seek a plastic surgeon who treats revisions after traditional liposuction.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It takes long time, 6-12 months, for result of liposuction to settle and mature. This involves period of lumpness and irregularities, which usually soften and improve in time. Good massage always helps. Once "deformity" matures and does not change, you should consider correction which usually involves combination of selective liposuction and fat grafting. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Dazzling762125,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry you are unhappy with the results from your liposuction.  At six months post op all or almost all of the swelling will have resolved and you are seeing final results.  I encourage you to speak with your surgeons about your concerns.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

At six months post-op, the majority of your swelling has resolved and you are seeing permanent results.  Youi do have a little residual fat on the right lateral thigh and some minor depressions on your left.  I would return to your surgeon with these concerns to see what suggestions he/she has.
Best wishes.
Dr. Taranow

Dents and bumps 6 months after liposuction - is this swelling? (photos)

Answers (5)