Discoloration on inner thighs after Smart Lipo? (Photo)

Question

I had Smartlipo 3 months ago and now have dark shadows on my inner thighs. I believe that they are a result of the contouring and not hyper-pigmentation, but would like to get an opinion please. What if anything can be done about the problem? Thanks,

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

I don't see skin discoloration in the photos. I see an abrupt contour dropoff where the liposuctioned area begins. This dropoff can be softened by a revisionary liposuction technique known as liposhifting. It's relatively quick, the recovery is mild and it can be repeated if necessary.

Christopher T. Chia, MD · Answer

Rarely, hyperpigmentation or darkening of the skin may occur following SmartLipo or with any liposuction. Common areas are the inner thighs as in your case or in the upper outer arm and is usually the result of the breakdown products of a bruise that stains the undersurface of the dermis of the skin. The reason it occurs more frequently in the inner thighs is due to the thin and relatively inelastic nature of that skin where any darkening is more likely to show through. While it may take months or even longer than a year to clear, the body will eventually remove the dark areas. If it does not appear to get better with time, certain lasers may help speed the process up. In the meanwhile, go back to your plastic surgeon to make sure it isn't some other issue that should be treated proactively and good luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is difficult to say if that is a shadow or what.  You really need to be seen in person to determine what the issue is.

Discoloration on inner thighs after Smart Lipo? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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