Is it possible for slipping rib syndrome to occur during flank liposuction?

Question

I am 6 months post lipo of inner/outer thigh and flank liposuction. I absolute love the results, but still have a dull pain in my lower right side ribcage bottom, a 1/2 or so towards the back, but more on the side. I can feel a hard [RS bleep] feeling. It's sizable and unmistakeable. I DID consult my PS and he was unsure as to what it was. He said possibly scar tissue, but I'm think it's more related to my lower rib cage. I do aim to visit my general practitioner in hopes of seeking a diagnosis.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Ribs are very sensitive to any trauma including one caused with liposuction cannula. Any patient that had multiple areas treated with liposuction including ribs will complain mostly about rib pain. It is not unusual that this pain can last for several weeks/months after surgery. Rib/intercostal blocks with anesthetic and/or steroids can help. It is important to keep follow ups with your surgeon and exclude other type of rib injury (chest x-ray). Good luck.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello.
Great question. I am sorry for your post op difficulties. A personal examination is needed to properly evaluate your concerns. I hope your visit to your primary physician gives you some clear answers.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Labrooks
 So sorry you are having this issue after liposuction. 
While physical examination is needed, it sounds like your pain is related to residual scar tissue from the liposuction. This should resolve with time and gentle self massage. Also, ask your plastic surgeon about possible steroid injections into the area to speed recovery and decrease pain. If pain persists, ultrasound or MRI may be an option. Discuss my advice with your board-certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. Sorry to hear you are still having some problems after your procedure. Without an exam, it is going to be hard to give a good answer. It is sometimes possible to have some residual scar tissue from liposuction, and it can sometimes take 6-12 months for this to resolve. If you are concerned, you can always consider some imaging to evaluate the area and get a better idea of what is going on. Hope this helps!Dallas R. Buchanan, MD, FACSOwner & Board-Certified Plastic SurgeonVIVIFY plastic surgery

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

would you describe does not sound like slipping rib syndrome. Most likely this is soft tissue trauma or possibly damage to the covering of the ribs call the periosteum. That tissue layer can be very sensitive and take a long time to heal.  I don't think there is any particular treatment though sometimes injecting anti-inflammatory steroids if you can pinpoint the area can help.  I'm glad you're happy with your results. Generally with enough time postoperative discomfort dissipates.  Six months is a long time and certainly long enough for your results to be final.  At this point I recommend following up with your primary care doctor like you are planning and consider asking for a referral to a pain specialist.  Best, Mats Hagstrom MD

Is it possible for slipping rib syndrome to occur during flank liposuction?

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