2 years after Vaser & still have uncomfortable tightness in midsection - advice?

Question

I continue with an uncomfortable tightness at my midsection where Vaser liposuction was applied. It's been almost 2 years and this is still occurring. It causes anxiety and a constant focus on my abdomen with my abdomen contracting constantly against the skin where this procedure took place. There is no fat remaining between the skin and muscle of my abdomen.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding abdominal pain two years after vaser liposuction to the abdomen. It sounds like you have scar tissue. You mention that you have no fat between your skin and your underlying muscle. This means that you have adhesions, scar tissue, or fibrosis. These are all the same. If the scar tissue is really causing you undue pain, I would suggest deep tissue massage to break up the tissue. You may also want to consider a Theragun deep tissue massage machine. If the area is isolated, they may require an injection of steroids or even Kenalog or 5FU. If the areas are more spread out along the areas which had received Vaser liposuction, you may want to consider revision. The revision would entail no removal of more fat but instead the breaking up of scar tissue. The revision should be performed under general anesthesia to release all the uncomfortable areas completely. Good luck. I hope this helps answer your question regarding how to get rid of painful, scarred areas two years after Vaser liposuction of the abdomen.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Trauma2, thank you for your question. It is important to take into account several aspects among which is the surgical technique applied, and to evaluate if there is something else at a systemic level. The best course of action is to consult one or several board certified plastic surgeon for more information and options tailored specifically to your needs. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Anuj Purbey, MBBS · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about your ongoing discomfort following Vaser liposuction. It's understandable that experiencing persistent tightness and anxiety can have a significant impact on your daily life.

Here are some steps you can take to address your concerns:

Consult with Your Surgeon: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your Vaser liposuction surgeon to discuss your symptoms and concerns. They can assess your condition, perform a physical examination, and provide personalized recommendations for managing your discomfort.
Explore Treatment Options: Your surgeon may recommend various treatment options to alleviate tightness and discomfort, such as massage therapy, physical therapy, or specific exercises to improve flexibility and muscle function.
Consider Psychological Support: Persistent discomfort and anxiety can take a toll on your mental well-being. Consider seeking support from a mental health professional who can help you develop coping strategies and address any underlying anxiety or stress related to your symptoms.
Explore Alternative Therapies: Some individuals find relief from chronic tightness and discomfort through complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or mindfulness practices. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider to determine if they may be suitable for you.
Manage Expectations: It's essential to manage your expectations and recognize that recovery from liposuction can vary from person to person. While some individuals may experience resolution of symptoms within a few months, others may require more time and additional interventions to achieve relief.
Seek Second Opinions: If you're not satisfied with the response or treatment recommendations from your current surgeon, consider seeking a second opinion from another qualified healthcare provider who specializes in liposuction and body contouring procedures.
Remember that you're not alone in experiencing post-operative discomfort, and there are resources and support available to help you address your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself and seek the care and support you need to address your concerns effectively.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Great question/s, but no posted photos of your Vaser lipo abdominal results??? Most likely you have fibrosis due the the use of any energy based liposuction like Vaser. The fibrosis can cause the exact post op issues you describe! As for a remedy - not many options. But you need either in person or virtual consult with....That is why I no longer offer energy based liposuctions....

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

You didn’t include before and after pictures so we can’t make an assessment. If your procedure was aggressive, using an aggressive device. If as you say all the fat was removed and I’m not surprised your body feels awkward and different. You’re supposed to have a fat layer between your skin and the muscle layers. 
The importance of choosing the right provider cannot be overstated.Liposuction is a permanent and irreversible operation. The time to be critical of providers is before you choose your surgeon.
Unfortunately, at this point, there’s probably very little you can do other than perhaps ask for a referral to a physical therapist or consider therapy.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

2 years after Vaser & still have uncomfortable tightness in midsection - advice?

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Answer: 2 years after Vaser & still have uncomfortable tightness in midsection - advice?

Answer: 2 years after Vaser & still have uncomfortable tightness in midsection - advice?

Answer: What happens when all the fat is removed?

Answer: What happens when all the fat is removed?

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2 years after Vaser & still have uncomfortable tightness in midsection - advice?

Answers (5)

Answer: 2 years after Vaser & still have uncomfortable tightness in midsection - advice?

Answer: 2 years after Vaser & still have uncomfortable tightness in midsection - advice?

Answer: What happens when all the fat is removed?

Answer: What happens when all the fat is removed?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Vaser Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.