Introduction: Liposuction Scars
Liposuction scars may refer to two separate concerns that include external skin and deeper soft tissue scarring. The external skin-related liposuction scars are due to traditional scars that may develop in the areas of skin incisions. The skin incisions are called port sites, and describe the entry points for the liposuction cannulas. The second liposuction scars of the deeper soft tissues are related to irritation and hyperinflammatory reaction that occurs beneath the skin due to undesirable soft tissue collagen deposition.
External Port Liposuction Scarring
External port site liposuction scars External skin port site liposuction scars develop because of the abrasion injury that occurs following irritation from the liposuction cannula. You have to imagine that the liposuction cannula removes fat by traversing across the soft tissues. Traversing of the tissues requires the back-and-forth motion of the cannula against the skin edge where the port site lies. This results in direct damage to the skin and soft tissues which then results in poor scarring. Traditional liposuction does not provide for precautions to avoid this abrasion injury. However, high-definition liposuction with ultrasound-assisted liposuction takes precautions to avoid injury to these areas. When performing ultrasound-assisted liposuction, we utilize port protectors which are solid barrier pieces that we fit into your port sites. This apparatus literally protects your skin from all shear forces. This precaution literally eliminates all potential for external skin liposuction scars.
Internal soft tissue fibrosis Liposuction Scarring
Internal soft tissue liposuction scars Internal soft tissue liposuction scars are created by irritation of soft tissue cells by virtue of the liposuction cannula traversing through the tissues. The physical shear force felt by the rigid cannula results in torn micro-vessels and irritation of nerves. As a result, proinflammatory cells migrate to the area as a defense line. Unfortunately, these cells then trigger a hyperinflammatory cascade that culminates in the arrival of fibroblasts that lay down scar tissue, i.e. collagen material as a means of putting up protective barriers. Although the fibroblasts mean well, these barricading collagenous structures result in tissue firmness that patients can feel like soft tissue scars. Several measures are taken to minimize the formation of these liposuction scars. First, we use ultrasound-assisted liposuction which allows for gentle removal of fat cells as it requires less mechanical shearing of the tissues. In addition, we add steroids to our tumescent solution and place our patients on a steroid regimen by mouth, both intended to reduce the activation of a hyperinflammatory reaction. For those who do develop soft tissue liposuction scarring, we employ aggressive topical radiofrequency treatments at 2 weeks following surgery to counter the above scar tissues.
Liposuction Scarring specific to the area of treatment
Liposuction utilizes small incisions to insert the cannula that suction out unwanted fat during this body contouring procedure. While scars from liposuction are typically minimal, proper aftercare helps them heal optimally with more discreet, faint scarring.
Incision Placement for Liposuction
The location of liposuction incisions varies based on the treatment areas:
Abdomen and Flanks
- Within or near the belly button
- Low on the abdomen above the pubic area
- Toward the back along the midline above the buttocks
Thighs and Buttocks
- Within the gluteal crease
- Near the groin crease in the upper inner thighs
Arms
- Inside of the armpit
- Inner elbow crease
Chin, Neck, and Face
- Under the chin
- Behind the ears
- Inside the mouth
Strategic incision placement in more discreet areas helps minimize visible scarring. Precise closure using sutures, tapes, or glue also promotes optimal healing.
Liposuction Scars: What to Expect
Typical attributes of liposuction scars include:
- Small length, usually less than 1 inch.
- A pinkish-red hue that fades gradually over 12+ months.
- Might feel firmer or uneven initially before softening.
- Continues maturing and improving up to 3 years.
- Can be easily hidden within natural body creases and folds.
With proper incision care, liposuction scars often heal remarkably well and become barely noticeable over time.
Caring for Liposuction Incisions During Healing
Recommended aftercare for liposuction scars includes:
- Keeping incisions clean and dry initially to prevent infection.
- Wearing compression garments to minimize swelling and support healing.
- Avoiding sun exposure to prevent hyperpigmentation.
- Using silicone sheeting or scar creams to hydrate and flatten scars.
- Gentle massage to improve pliability once fully closed.
- Protecting scars with sunscreen or clothing when outdoors.
Following surgeon instructions facilitates incision healing and discreet scarring.
Treatment Options for Raised or Discolored Liposuction Scars
For liposuction scars that become raised, thickened, or darkened, additional treatments can help:
- Laser scar revision smooths and fades discolored scars.
- Steroid injections flatten and soften enlarged scars.
- Surgical scar revision may rarely be needed for severely retracted scars.
- Microneedling improves scar texture and color.
- Radiation therapy can prevent the recurrence of excessive scarring if needed.
Fortunately, significant scarring issues after liposuction remain uncommon with proper surgical technique. However, various effective options exist for optimization if needed.
Conclusion: Liposuction Scars
While tiny incisions are required during liposuction for inserting the cannula, resultant liposuction scars are usually minimal as evident following liposuction after four weeks. Strategic placement within natural body lines, meticulous closure methods, and proper aftercare allow incisions to heal well. Following surgeon directions and using scar treatments as needed helps keep liposuction scars faint and discreet.
