Can liposuction be reversed

Question

Too much was taken via liposuction in a V shape above my hipbones and up to my sides. It is a noticeable indentation on both sides of my stomach/sides. Can this be filled in with a fat graft?? If not, Any other suggestions??

Ankur Mehta, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and for posting photos along with it. Irregular contours from liposuction can at times be VERY difficult to correct based on the severity of the irregularities. In order for you to get the best surgical plan on what needs to be done in your case, it would be most helpful to evaluate you in person. When correcting irregular contours from liposuction a combination can be used. Its not always just adding fat in areas where there are divots but also removing fat from the surrounding areas so the divots end up smoothing out. From your photos alone it appears you may benefit from liposuction above the indentations and you may also need some fat in the indentations. I hope this helps and please make sure you are being evaluated by a board certified plastic surgeon!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Congratulations on your procedure. Fat grafting may be possible. A personal examination will be needed. Pre op images as well. How long ago was your liposuction? It may be too early to evaluate your results.

Alex Campbell, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Best is to discuss specifically with the operating surgeon so that he /she can take a look. Based on your photos, fat grafting would be a great option to treat that area. You definitely have to choose your surgeon correctly and make sure that he/she has the training and experience to meet your goals with absolute safety.  A key quality indicator is Board Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.  Don’t settle for less than a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with specialized expertise in this procedure.

Rod J. Rohrich, MD · Answer

The best thing for you to do is consult in person with a board certified plastic surgeon to see what your options are.  Fat transfer will likely be your best option.  You need to seek a plastic surgeon with experience and expertise in fat transfer in areas other than just the face.

John Rosdeutscher, MD · Answer

Well first of all you appear to have a good contour & symmetry. Not knowing what your pre-op appearance or how far out from surgery, I will say that changes will continue to occur for 6-12 mos post-op. Fat-grafting is an option for contour irregularities, but survival of the fat is not consistent or reliable. Obviously you should discuss your concerns with your surgeon’s office, but I would be reluctant to rush back & likely create a problem where there is not currently...
Best of luck & enjoy the results!

Kamran Khoobehi, MD · Answer

This can be filled with your own fat. The best would be to see your surgeon for recommendations. Fat grafting will work and I would recommend to wait six months before doing the fat grafting.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

first of all your results look pretty good.  It would be helpful if you posted before and after pictures so we know what work was actually done. Fat transfer is the only realistic option. This however tends to not work well because there's a lack of host tissue to support the grafted fat. When someone is left with skin and muscles only there are no good layers to graft the fat into. The amount of fat required to deliver what do you think is a reasonably good result will not be sustainable with a single treatment.  Realistically you will need 3 to 4 fat grafting sessions to correct this. Probably more than what you're willing to undergo. There are no good alternatives in your case.  For people with skin laxity or muscle separation from previous pregnancies converting liposuction into a full tummy tuck may be an option. Best, Mats Hagstrom MD

Can liposuction be reversed

Answers (7)