Can My Abdominal Lipo Lumps Be Corrected? (photo)

Question

I had lower abdominal liposculpture in July 2011 and was left with lumps on the right side of my abdomen. I became pregnant a year later and now that I have had my child, I would like to know how I can improve the appearance of my abdomen without undergoing a tummy tuck. I should never have undergone this procedure, I had a small protruding area around my belly button and asked the surgeon if it was fat or skin. She said they would look at it in the OR and I woke up with lower abdominal lipo.

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

Unfortunately we are seeing more and more contour irregularities with the increase use of laser liposuction.  The contour irregularities and skin discoloration problems that go along with many of the cases are quite alarming.

	While fat grafting and microliposuction may benefit you somewhat, it is likely to be a second rate solution. Further liposuction, particularly with the laser, is likely to make you more lumpy.

	You are best off with a minimally invasive tummy tuck and microliposuction.

	It may be best to wait until you can 'do it right'.  You may also want to consult with several reputable board certified plastic surgeons, preferably ASPS members, in deciding your options.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

There are some situations in which the areas can be significantly improved and some in which improvement is less likely.  A physical exam will help to assess what may be appropriate in your situation.  Liposuction and fat grafting results are highly surgeon dependent.  Find a plastic surgeon with ELITE credentials who performs hundreds of liposuction and fat grafting procedures each year.  Then look at the plastic surgeon's website before and after photo galleries to get a sense of who can deliver the results.

	Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

From the picture alone I can't make a specific recommendation but I do see the contour irregularities. Fat grafting to the depressed areas may be necessary. I wonder if your liposuction was assisted by a laser or ultrasound.

Can My Abdominal Lipo Lumps Be Corrected? (photo)

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Can My Abdominal Lipo Lumps Be Corrected? (photo)

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