Poor Outcome

I had a BBL performed by Dr. Beck several years ago and unfortunately was left with significant, permanent hypertrophic scarring and skin defects on both of my legs. There was also some hemosiderin staining in the affected areas. I experienced less severe contour abnormalities and lumpiness in my abdomen and arms as well, but by far my biggest concern has been the hypertrophic scarring on my legs.

I am not someone who is typically prone to abnormal scarring. The first dermatologist I saw was extremely concerned by the appearance of my legs and specifically told me that I needed to follow up with my surgeon. I did, but I did not feel that Dr. Beck showed the same level of concern or provided much guidance about what had happened or what I should do next. I was advised to purchase Silagen, which I did, but unfortunately it did not help.

Because I was still trying to understand what had caused the damage, I sought another opinion from a highly regarded dermatologist. Based on the appearance, they initially thought the areas looked similar to burns that can occur with VASER liposuction. They requested my surgical report to determine whether VASER had been used. After reviewing the report and confirming that VASER was not performed, I was told the scarring appeared consistent with the liposuction cannula having been too superficial.

After approximately six months of waiting, covering my legs, and hoping the areas would improve, I began laser treatments. I underwent several treatments, which helped lighten the redness and some of the discoloration, but the hypertrophic scars and skin defects remain.

I have spent thousands of dollars on additional medical treatments trying to improve the damage. I completely understand that every surgery carries risks and that no surgeon can guarantee a perfect result. I wasn’t angry simply because I experienced a complication. What was most upsetting was feeling unsupported afterward. The first dermatologist who evaluated me was extremely concerned and specifically directed me back to my surgeon, yet when I returned, I did not feel that same level of concern.

I was left to seek multiple medical opinions, figure out what had happened, determine what treatments might help, and pay for those treatments on my own. Beyond the financial cost, this caused a significant amount of stress and affected how comfortable I felt showing my legs for a long time.

I chose a reputable plastic surgeon because I expected not only appropriate surgical care, but also support if something went wrong. I didn’t expect Dr. Beck to be able to reverse the damage, but I did expect concern, guidance, and assistance navigating a significant complication. Unfortunately, I did not feel that I received that. Years later, I am still left with permanent hypertrophic scars and defects on both legs, in addition to less significant irregularities in other areas that were treated.