What can I do about what seems to be permanent bruising after lipo?

Question

I am of Asian descent and tan very easily. I had lipo done on stomach n flanks n breast fat transfer over a year n a half ago. Unfortunately i didn’t retain much of the breast fat transfer and the lipo left bruising on obliques...doctor did laser treatment to try to fade them n I’ve also tried skin lighting cream but I don’t see much improvement. What else can I do?

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thanks for the question, the post surgical hyperpigmentation is real and energy devices need to be brought down in energy to prevent this in darker skin patients, I have seen low energy lasers and triluma cream can be effective but sometimes it just takes a few years for the pigment cells to become normal again

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well. 
Unfortunately, without pictures, it is very difficult to give you a proper answer. l recommend you to make an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon to talk about your goals and anything you need to know.
Good luck :)

Steven Yarinsky, MD, FACS · Answer

Your discoloration is likely permanent after 1.5 years.   Pigment reducing laser therapy such as Genesis V or Excel V by Cutera and scar cream treatment like BioCorneum applied twice daily may help.   But you'll have to see what works by trial and error. Best of luck!Steven Yarinsky, MD, FACSboard certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic surgery and cosmetic medicine

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

It is not uncommon for dark skin and Asian patients to experience hyperpigmentation post liposuction.  The pigmentation does slowly resolve (not always fully) over a few years.  Laser therapy, use of Retin-A are all acceptable therapies.Not sure I have much to add to what your Plastic Surgeon has been using.Dr T

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

Sorry to hear about your bruising, emdee49.
It’s quite unusual to still have bruising at this point. It usually resolves within a month post-liposuction. However, it might be possible that it’s due to skin staining from hemosiderin, a byproduct of broken down blood cells. This might take years to resolve.
It can also be due to chronic smoking, use of blood thinners, and abnormal bleeding or clotting profile.
I suggest that you consult a reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon for a second opinion if laser treatment did not help. You need to have a physical consultation to make sure that you’re getting the right treatment.
Best of luck!

What can I do about what seems to be permanent bruising after lipo?

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