Bruise left a dent inm y left bum cheek. Will it go away?

Question

I fell very hard on my bum while going down stairs. Shortly after, noticed a VERY big deep purple bruise on my left cheek, with a dent, I didn't think much of it, thought it was part of the healing process. 2 weeks later the bruise is almost gone but the dent is still visible, I've done research and found that this may not heal because it could be destruction of fat cells and need fat injection or grafting. I'm concerned/ selfconscious about this, I would like an explanation or solution please

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Fat transfer may be a very reasonable choice based upon
your description and goals. Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It could indeed be Fat Necrosis. It could also be a result of swelling all around. I would recommend some massages at this time. If the deformity persist Autologous Fat Grafting is an excellent solution.  All The Best.

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

In my opinion, your bruise can leave a divot. There are several excellent treatments. Fat transfer, subscision with PRP, permanent and long lasting fillers are very effective. Seek a doctor with experience who will show you photos.Good luck!

R. Stephen Mulholland, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear kathyt08,

Thank you for your clinical post.  This experience you have had is more common
than you would think.  Significant soft
tissue trauma particularly to the buttocks can result in a deep bruise within
the soft tissue of the muscle and the fat. 
And this bruise also called a hematoma will resolve.  However, injury to the adipose tissue or fat
cells can result in their destruction. 
The result can be an indentation or depression that can be aesthetically
unsightly.  In general this can improve
significantly with a variety of techniques. 
If it is still early following the injury then bulk heating, painless
outpatient radio frequency treatments can sometimes build up the soft tissue
contour and soften the tissue in preparation for fat grafting.

Waiting 6 to 9 months after the trauma will result in
stabilization of the extent and depth of the indentation and you may be then a
candidate for fat grafting.  Fat grafting
can result in tremendous improvement and these indentations and irregularities
particularly when they are from trauma and not liposuction.  However, occasionally a second fat grafting
procedure is required one year after the first to achieve optimal results.  All these procedures can be performed under
local anesthesia and as an outpatient with very few risks.

I hope this information has been of some assistance.

For more information, please review the link below.

R. Stephen Mulholland, M.D.

Certified Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville, Toronto

Bruise left a dent inm y left bum cheek. Will it go away?

Answers (4)