Liposuction removes excess fat to improve body contour. While effective for body sculpting, the procedure involves trauma to underlying tissues. A common and expected part of the body’s natural healing process after liposuction is the formation of internal scar tissue. This article explores what internal scar tissue is and how to manage its effects.
Understanding Internal Scar Tissue After Liposuction
Internal scar tissue, often referred to as fibrosis, is the body’s natural response to liposuction trauma. It involves the overproduction of collagen fibers, forming dense, fibrous tissue as part of the repair. This process mends disrupted tissues.
Fibrosis can manifest as firmness, tenderness, and sometimes an irregular or lumpy appearance under the skin. Unlike typical post-operative swelling, which is softer and diminishes, internal scar tissue is firmer and more persistent. These irregularities can affect the skin’s texture, making it feel hard or appear uneven.
Lumps are a common part of the healing process, often noticeable within weeks to months after surgery. While some lumps may be due to fluid accumulation or residual fat, persistent hard lumps are indicative of scar tissue formation. Most patients notice improvements in fibrosis within three to six months as the body heals.
Non-Invasive Approaches to Addressing Scar Tissue
Non-invasive methods can help manage internal scar tissue after liposuction. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized massage technique that promotes fluid circulation and reduces swelling. By stimulating the lymphatic system, MLD helps drain excess fluid and toxins, aiding in softening fibrous tissue and alleviating discomfort.
Beyond MLD, other specialized massage techniques, such as deep tissue massage, can be applied to the treated areas. These techniques aim to physically break down the fibrous bands and improve the skin’s texture and pliability. A trained therapist must perform these massages, as improper technique can worsen swelling or cause damage. Regular, gentle massage can contribute to a smoother recovery and better aesthetic outcomes.
Energy-based therapies also offer benefits for softening scar tissue. Therapeutic ultrasound uses sound waves to create heat deep within tissues, which can help increase blood flow and collagen remodeling. Radiofrequency (RF) delivers controlled heat to affected areas, working to soften fibrous tissue and promote tissue tightening. These modalities aim to improve tissue elasticity and reduce firmness associated with internal scarring without incisions.
Medical and Minimally Invasive Treatments
When non-invasive approaches are not sufficient, medical and minimally invasive treatments can be considered for persistent scar tissue. Corticosteroid injections administer anti-inflammatory medication directly into fibrous areas. These injections reduce inflammation and flatten firm scar tissue by inhibiting excessive collagen production. However, side effects, such as skin atrophy or discoloration, are possible.
Enzymatic injections, such as collagenase, directly break down excess collagen that forms scar tissue. These enzymes dissolve dense fibrous bands, softening the tissue and improving contour irregularities. This method provides a precise intervention for localized areas of significant fibrosis.
Surgical revision is a last resort for severe or unyielding irregularities unresponsive to other treatments. This procedure removes or releases dense scar tissue to improve the contour and smoothness of the treated area. It is a more significant intervention with its own recovery period and potential risks, typically recommended only after less invasive options have been exhausted.
Setting Expectations and Seeking Professional Guidance
Managing internal scar tissue after liposuction requires patience; resolution is a gradual process. While significant improvement is often achievable, complete elimination of internal scar tissue may not always be possible. The timeline for results from various treatments can vary, with some improvements noticeable within weeks and others taking several months.
Maintain realistic expectations throughout the recovery period. Most lumps and firmness are temporary, resolving with time and proper care. However, it is advisable to consult a medical professional if lumps persist beyond six months, if there is unusual pain or swelling, or if at-home measures and non-invasive therapies are ineffective. Seeking advice from the original surgeon or a board-certified plastic surgeon ensures appropriate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.