How to manage rough skin and swelling post-liposuction?

Question

Hi doctor,

Two months post liposuction, I have some irregularities in the operated area; it is looking pretty rough, and I suspect poor technique. The surgeon is saying it will go away in six months, but I wanted a second opinion on that. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Contour irregularities following liposuction are among the most common problems a patient can face and are well-reported in the literature. It can sometimes take up to six months to get the final results. Some patients can have a residual swelling between pockets of fat, which can mask and affect the appearance of the skin, giving some irregularity in the initial period.

To answer your query further, may I please know the following:

Is this the first procedure sitting you have had?
How much fat was removed in terms of volume?
Have you been told about this by your surgeon?
Do you have any risk factors like smoking?
Or any medical conditions?
And finally, have you had any previous abdominal surgery in the past?

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

In most cases, lumps and swellings felt or seen in the initial recovery period settle down. Occasionally, some minor contour irregularities can remain, leading to asymmetry.

However, with time, as fat redistribution takes place, this also gets corrected. Very rarely, some patients require corrective surgery if it continues to bother. As with any surgery, healing varies from patient to patient and varies according to risk factors present, like smoking or underlying medical conditions.

I have seen the photographs (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity) attached. From the looks, you seem to have some minor contour irregularity, although it is hard to appreciate entirely just by a photograph, and it needs a physical examination.

As I said before, it may take up to six months to get the final results of the healing status or whether you require any further procedure. I would, at this stage, recommend taking a healthy diet and regular exercise, continuing any common medications you are already taking, and being in contact with your operating surgeon.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.