How to reduce bulge after Smart Lipo? Could this bulge be from scar tissue or leftover fat or loose skin? (Photo)

Question

I had smartlipo 5 months ago. I have a bulge around my belly button area. There also appears to be an indent on my upper stomach. Could it be left over fat or scar tissue or lose skin? What could my possible options be to reduce this?

Christopher T. Chia, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Although it is impossible to tell definitively from the photographs alone, swelling can be reasonably ruled out as the source of the excess. Regarding scar tissue, this generally resolves on its own and initially feels fibrous or thick. The process of remodeling and smoothing can be sped up by gentle massage. However, the peri-umbilical region is not an uncommon area of under-resection of fat which means that there could be leftover fat there that causes a "doughnut" or "bagel" deformity where the belly button makes the "hole" of the "bagel". The reason this occurs is because the umbilicus has a stalk that runs deep to the abdominal muscle and tethers/supports the umbilicus to some degree. If the fat surrounding it is not aggressively removed, any residual fat is accentuated and causes the fullness. The good news is that a small secondary SmartLipo procedure can easily correct this (if this is the case for you). Make an appointment with your plastic surgeon who I am sure will be more than willing to make the overall outcome for you as optimal as possible.

Marco A. Pelosi III, MD, FACOG, FACS · Answer

A combination of revisionary lipo techniques work well to improve lumps and dents. Liposhifting is a type of fat transfer technique which is quite useful in situations like yours. These can be done under local anesthesia effectively.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

That bulge appears to be deep scar tissue, swelling which can take 6-12 months to dissipate. If it does not, then a revision may be indicated. Keep close follow up with your plastic surgeon during this time and follow instructions for treatment, management.

Carlos Burnett, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi and thanks for the question. The depression may be residual fat , scar tissue or both. Your dimple may be amenable to massage therapy if it is scar tissue. You should return to your surgeon for evaluation.DrBurnett#reaslself100

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

the body is generally excellent at smoothing indents like the one you show in the photo. however it does take time so allow one year.There is a subtle fullness around your umbilicus. it too should improve over the next 6 months. if you still want it further reduced, you could have a small limited amount more smartlipo done in this area.david berman md

How to reduce bulge after Smart Lipo? Could this bulge be from scar tissue or leftover fat or loose skin? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Bulge

Answer: Bulge

Answer: I think your indent will resolve over the year

Answer: I think your indent will resolve over the year

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Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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How to reduce bulge after Smart Lipo? Could this bulge be from scar tissue or leftover fat or loose skin? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Bulge

Answer: Bulge

Answer: I think your indent will resolve over the year

Answer: I think your indent will resolve over the year

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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