Sagging skin after submental lipo, or just swelling? Only 31 yrs old. (Photo)

Question

I had lipo abdomen, arms and submental. I have good skin elasticity. 9 days postop and noticing wrinkly, weird looking skin under my chin which hang down on each side. I think they removed 60-100cc from submental area. no issues so far w/skin anywhere else. MD says lumps are edema but looks too odd. Sometimes they rebound after pressure applied but sometimes pits, or holds shape when I pinch. I wear the chin strap and avoid heat and salt. Is this possibly edema or more likely extra loose skin?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest getting a second opinion.  Although there can be swelling that can persist, if the liposuction was over aggressive and too superficial you may be left with a "cobra deformity" which is banding and wrinkling in the area too heavily treated.  My suggestion is to begin ultrasound/radiofrequency/massage treatments and give it a little time to see if this resolves.  I would get a second opinion from someone experienced who does these type of procedures daily.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Shim Ching, MD · Answer

Swelling makes it impossible to judge your result at the present time.  There may be loose skin but usually some retraction can occur after liposuction.  You may have loose skin that can only be improved with a procedure such as a necklift, but it is too early to tell.  Please see your surgeon who can best advise you.Best wishes for your recovery.

Hisham Seify, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Wait for final resolution of the swelling, small touch up could be done if needed after 3 months.It is hard to tell that early. best of luck

Jon F. Harrell, DO, FACS · Answer

If you had good skin tone prior to the suctioning then that shouldn't be an issue. However, good, even compression is important after surgery to avoid skin irregularities. If the surgeon blended the fat removal into the sides of the neck then this should improve with time. Your surgeon should be able to tell you if this was done. Things should improve for up to 3-4 months so be patient for now.  Best of Luck   Dr Harrell

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Irregularities following surgery may be due to edema and may resolve with time. On the down side they could also be due to over aggressive liposuction in one area vs another and or exposure ofthe submental glands. Obviously an examination is needed to be ceratin what is going on so see your surgeon.

Dr. Corbin

Dr. Corbin

Sagging skin after submental lipo, or just swelling? Only 31 yrs old. (Photo)

Answers (5)