Is this scar tissue or fat? (Photo)

Question

Hi I had liposuction done about 3 years ago now and I've noticed when I pull my skin tight I can see some lumps under the skin. They don't feel completely hard and have a bit of give in them. When I pinch them they hurt a little bit. I'm wondering if this could be scar tissue that can be treated or is this fat that will go away with additional weight loss? Thank you

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

It's good question. It appears that he may have some scar tethering your skin.  After 3 years, it's unlikely to improve with time.  I think that is unlikely to go away with additional weight loss.Treatment with typically consists of a scar release and possibly some fat grafting to the area.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This looks like scar tissue and should be evaluated to determine the best options for treatment.  An in person consultation is needed.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your picture and questions. It appears from the picture that you have some scar tissue in the area that is tethering the skin and creating the contour deformity. I do not think that weight loss/gain will have a significant effect on the area pictured. Best to see a board certified plastic surgeon in your area to discuss treatment options for this area.Good luck!

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear, thanks for your question and provided
information as well.. This is the surgical
procedure that revolutionized cosmetic surgery becoming one of the most
performed cosmetic procedures. Subcutaneous tissue or fat is removed in order
to contour the body in a way that is harmonious and pleasing to the senses. It
can be performed in almost all regions of the body such as the neck, chin,
abdomen, back, buttocks, thighs, arms and ankles. Usually done through a small
incision in the skin through which a cannula connected to a vacuum is applied,
it can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures. After
liposuction your body is going to be really swollen for at least 2 to 4 months
after your surgery. It is important for you to wear your compression garment
for at least 6 months, the first 3 months 24/7 and then the last 3 months at
least 12 hours per day for your body get use to not having the faja for so many
time. When you remove it, your body can get swollen and also you can have pain.
Remember to also compress your body to prevent a seroma which is an
accumulation of liquid that has to be drained, it is hard to touch and also
really painful. Bruises are completely normal for almost 3 months from surgery,
that’s why is better for you to use a bruising cream and apply it all over your
body 3 times a day. To prevent bad circulation and swollen legs, use
compression socks. Brazilian butt lift can be performed with the same procedure
and for a month it will be swollen and it will drop a little bit without losing
it’s shape if you use your garment.. If you’re going to perform liposuction on
your inner, outer, anterior, lateral, postetior thighs, be careful and consult
with your surgeon what’s best for you, sometimes we have more extra skin than
fat, that can cause severe sagginess on our legs, which can be only be reversed
performing a thigh lift. Hugs!

Rachel Streu, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi and thanks for posting your question.3 years after liposuction is quite a delay in presentation for such a problem. With that information, it is unlikely to improve with time or conservative measures. You may want to discuss with your surgeon options for release of scar tissue and possibly fat grafting to help even things out. The risk of this is to have a similar scar tissue result and further contour irregularities.

James L. Moore, MD · Answer

from the photos it would appear to be scarred fat.  After 3 years it is unlikely to change much more on its own.Some secondary liposuction and scar release may be considered with your Plastic Surgeon.Best of luck.

Lisa Lynn Sowder, MD (retired) - Account Suspended · Answer

From your photo this looks like scar tissue to me.  I doubt if weight loss would change it.  Also, it is possible that it could be a few little spots of fat necrosis which can leave a firm lump.  You would need an in person exam for a definitive diagnosis and recommendation of treatment.

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