Pain and Bruising 4 Months After Fat Transfer?

Question

I am 4 months a 10 days from liposuction and fat transfer to the buttocks. I received 1100 cc's in each cheek. My problem is that I fear that I may have an infection. My right cheek still has a red bruise about the size of a silver dollar and it is hot to the touch and throbs in pain on and off during the day. The area around that bruise is numb. What could this be? This is my third time having this procedure and I've never experienced this the first 2 times.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

You are correct to wonder if you have an infection since the area is red and hot and tender. Although fat necrosis and panniculitis may hurt and be tender they may not be hot. Please see your doctor right away. This may not be a diagnosis that can be confirmed as there may not be material to culture and your doctor may have to treat you with antibiotics based on clinical judgment. Atypical mycobacterial infections can take a while to surface and can take many weeks of antibiotic therapy to be treated.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

Brazilian Butt Lift recovery time is dependent on how the patient’s body reacts to the procedure. Patients usually return to work after a week but you should not sit without the use of cushions for at least two weeks and you must wear a compression garment for several weeks after the procedure. You should wait until at least 2 weeks after the procedure to engage in sexual activity. Swelling and discomfort normally fades at six weeks. After about a month you will be mostly healed and you can get a nice idea of the permanent results after around six months.

Catherine Huang-Begovic, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately infection can occur after fat transfer to the buttocks.  You should see you surgeon immediately for evaluation.  He/she should examine you to make sure everything is ok.  Pain and redness are definitely signs suspicious for infection.

	Dr. Cat Begovic M.D.

Pain and Bruising 4 Months After Fat Transfer?

Answers (3)