Key Takeaways

• Excessive scar tissue, known as fibrosis, commonly occurs with liposuction. It can affect function as well as comfort and aesthetics, so it is important to identify and treat it as soon as possible.
• Liposuction can be used for more than fat removal. It can even improve it by breaking down and treating fibrotic tissue from previous surgeries when used in conjunction with other modalities.
• As for having lipo to address scar tissue… well, not so fast! This step is important for establishing safe and realistic goals and managing expectations around risks.
• In order to safely treat fibrosis with lipo, specialized techniques and highly skilled surgeons are necessary. These steps prevent the formation of new scar tissue.
• Postoperative care, which is often ignored, is key to a smooth recovery. It means things like wearing compression garments, getting lymphatic massage and constant supervision to avoid complications.
• Use multidisciplinary approaches, including adjunctive massage therapy and energy-based devices. Specifically, customized exercise regimens have been shown to improve results with patients living with post-operative fibrosis!

Addressing scar tissue or fibrosis from previous surgeries with lipo involves softening the hardened skin. Further, it addresses internal changes that remain post previous surgeries.

In the United States, many individuals who have undergone plasties develop lumps and hard areas. They notice that their skin does not glide well because of the fibrosis.

Liposuction, or lipo for short, can help break up that scar tissue. This improves the appearance and mobility of the skin. Each case is unique as to what is the best course of action.

The plan varies based on area, scar type, and individual goals. Knowing what to expect allows you to make more informed decisions. Below, a rundown on how these cases are typically treated by physicians in the United States and what’s available.

Understanding Post-Surgery Fibrosis

Following any surgical intervention, the body begins the repair process by forming new connective tissue. Fibrosis is when the body produces excessive scar tissue, which can affect the appearance and texture of the skin. This is especially common after liposuction.

Patients might notice firm nodules or notice a pulling sensation beneath the skin. These lumps, the lipo fibrosis, can continue hanging around for months. Other times, they simply make them sore or unable to move.

Scar Tissue: Body’s Repair Crew

Scar Tissue—Body’s Repair Crew

Fibrosis, or scar tissue, is created by fibroblast cells that lay down collagen fibers. Collagen, a very strong protein, is the primary component of this tissue. Collagen acts as an adhesive, binding the dermis and subcutaneous layers of skin together as a wound heals.

Scar tissue is a normal, necessary part of healing, though it may not be as soft or stretchy as healthy skin. Immediately after surgery, you can expect swelling and bruising. These signs do resolve, but if bumps remain after one to 1-3 months, it may be fibrosis.

When Healing Goes Overboard

When healing goes overboard, in some patients, however, the body’s natural healing response is excessive. If the body doesn’t resolve inflammation, it continues to produce collagen. This process leads to thick, stiff patches of scar tissue called fibrosis.

Unfortunately, these patches can result in skin distortion or hardening. Individuals might find they can no longer lift their arm overhead, or they feel a persistent tightness that interrupts their day-to-day life. This goes beyond post surgical soreness—it can severely inhibit routine functions.

Fibrosis: More Than Just Scar

Fibrosis: Beyond cosmetic concern

Fibrosis should be considered more than just a cosmetic concern. It can result in debilitating chronic pain, reduced range of motion, or difficulty performing subsequent surgery.

Fellowship trained plastic surgeons use a combination of breast exams and diagnostic imaging to monitor for fibrosis and exclude other issues, such as seromas or hematomas. Wearing compression garments, getting early massages, and starting post-op treatment within a week of surgery are important.

While most people notice the most dramatic results within four to six weeks, recovery can take as long as a year.

Why Fibrosis Forms After Surgery

Development of fibrotic tissue is a well-known phenomenon post-operatively, particularly with surgical approaches such as liposuction. It occurs when the body’s natural healing process becomes dysregulated and overcorrects. Understanding why fibrosis forms can inform improved care and outcomes for all individuals affected by scarring from previous surgeries.

The Body’s Natural Healing

The Body’s Natural Healing Immediately following surgery, the body is in repair mode. It directs immune system cells to the site to “mop up” and start reconstituting tissue. This process results in the formation of scar tissue, which is strong but not as supple as healthy skin.

Typically, the body finds a happy medium—repairing injury without excessive scarring. When the body’s healing process is overactive, this scarring can result in excessive scar tissue, known as fibrosis. The immune response is the important player in all of this. If it overdoes it, it can get healing carried away, turning the scar tissue rigid and heavy.

Trauma, Inflammation, and Lipo

Surgical trauma, no matter how delicate the approach, can induce a foreign body inflammation. Swelling and pain may be expected in the immediate postoperative period, but if that inflammation remains chronic, fibrosis can develop.

What the surgeon does makes a difference. Gentle techniques and less surgical trauma reduce the risk, whereas more aggressive techniques can make the risk higher. In order to achieve optimal healing and recovery, addressing inflammation is key.

Wearing compression garments or beginning massage as soon as possible can prevent excessive swelling and prevent fibrosis from forming.

Individual Healing Factors

Genetics affect an individual’s healing process. Some individuals produce excessive amounts of scar tissue. Age and health play a role as well—older adults, or individuals with other chronic diseases may take longer to heal or develop more severe scarring.

It’s clear that personalized care—including precision therapies and intensive, personalized follow-up—is key to achieving the best outcomes for each individual.

Previous Surgeries: Key Factor

People with one or more past surgeries are at higher risk for fibrosis. Each surgery adds more scar tissue, which can pile up over time.

Before planning another procedure, it’s important to review surgical history and look for existing fibrosis. This helps tailor care and avoid more buildup.

Lipo: Targeting Previous Surgical Scars

Liposuction isn’t just some miraculous method for removing excess fat. In recent years, it has assumed a bigger role. It is now primarily used to treat patients with scar tissue or fibrosis resulting from previous surgical procedures.

Scar tissue tends to develop thick, rigid bands, altering the appearance and texture of the skin. Fibrosis frequently accumulates post-operatively causing the area to become hardened or bumpy. Lipo plays an important role in breaking up this tissue and smoothing out the skin. Hundreds of thousands of Americans pursue these treatments every year, eager to achieve improved comfort and a more appealing appearance.

1. How Lipo Can Help Fibrosis

How Liposuction Works Liposuction involves loosening and removing fat and fibrous tissue through a thin tube. During this step, when a surgeon pushes and pulls the tube in various ways, it shatters dense cords beneath the skin.

This procedure can help transform dense, raised scars into more pliable, even-textured skin. Other clinics are showing before and after cases where lipo was used to improve the stiffness of thick scars, resulting in a softer and thinner appearance of skin. Patients are typically most pleased with the improved contour and decreased feeling of tightness.

2. Not Just Fat Removal Anymore

Today’s lipo is not just for some quick body contouring. Surgeons are now empowered with new tools and methods to treat both adipose and scar tissues alike.

They may incorporate new treatments such as micro-fat grafting. They might combine stem cells and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to aid the skin’s natural healing processes and skin rejuvenation. These preparatory steps provide the scar with the best opportunity to heal and fade.

3. When Is Lipo a Good Option?

Lipo is most effective for scars that have adjacent fat tissue or a thick, ropey scarring tissue. Prior to beginning, surgeons evaluate the scar’s characteristics, location, and the patient’s overall health.

If the fibrosis is deemed too deep or wide, other modalities may be easier and more effective.

4. Special Lipo Techniques Needed

Dealing with scar tissue requires a certain finesse. Surgeons can employ the use of fine cannulas, micro-fat grafting or PRP.

These instruments allow us to work on the tissue just below the skin to achieve the best results possible. Training and technique over the years, advances in technology have produced significant improvements in lipo.

5. What Results Can You Expect?

Most patients can expect improved skin texture and decreased skin tension following lipo. Good post-op care wouldn’t hurt either.

Back to work for most people within a couple of days.

Could Lipo Worsen Existing Fibrosis?

Performing liposuction on regions that have developed old scar tissue or fibrosis due to previous surgeries is not as straightforward. The interaction between lipo and pre-existing fibrosis is complicated. A recent study found that lipo can induce the formation of new fibrotic tissue.

It can worsen existing fibrosis, though it is not that simple. This could lead to increased swelling, pain, or firm lumps from re-accumulation of scar tissue. More aggressive lipo techniques tend to increase these risks, particularly in the case of fibrotic tissue.

Risk of New Fibrosis

There are many potential triggers for the development of new fibrosis following lipo. Now, if the body responds with vigorous inflammation, you can get more scar tissue developing. So as with all things healing, it depends on the individual.

Perhaps some have an unusually rapid healing response, others a rather sluggish response or in fact a worsening of symptoms. Those with a personal or family history of keloids or hypertrophic scars are at an increased risk. Regular monitoring of the healing process allows complications to be detected sooner.

This includes frequent follow-ups and often additional treatment modalities, such as massage or compression garments, to prevent the formation of new fibrotic tissue.

Surgeon Skill Is Crucial

The surgeon’s skill is paramount. An experienced surgeon will understand how to navigate through pre-existing scar tissue to avoid creating further trauma. Attention to careful technique minimizes trauma and contributes to a more rapid recovery.

Going with a board-certified surgeon, particularly one with experience dealing with fibrotic tissue, usually improves outcomes. They understand when to recommend conservative treatments instead of aggressive treatment.

Your Body’s Unique Response

Every body has a unique response to liposuction. Two individuals undergoing the same incision and surgery could heal in completely opposite ways. Some patients with surgery will have greater degrees of scarring, and some will have less.

That’s why having a personalized aftercare plan is absolutely essential. Adequate aftercare could involve lymphatic drainage massage, compression garments, or individualized postoperative care.

Preparing for Lipo on Scar Tissue

Scar tissue, or fibrosis, from previous surgeries can affect how lipo behaves. Taking a strategic, phased approach increases the chance of success and reduces risk. Here are key steps to start with:

• Schedule a detailed consult with your surgeon.
• Share your full medical and surgical history.
• Get imaging studies if needed.
• Set clear, realistic goals for your results.
• Start therapies like massage and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD).
• Plan to wear compression garments after surgery.

Honest Talk With Surgeon

A good relationship with your patient and surgeon goes a long way in providing quality care. Have an honest discussion about all of your concerns, including fears about the appearance of scarring or the healing process.

Be honest about your surgical history, including even minor procedures. It’s best to be completely honest about what you hope to achieve and inquire about what can realistically be achieved for your body.

Surgeons should be able to let you know what risks are involved, including the likelihood of developing new or resistant scar tissue and the expected results. This honest discussion is essential to building trust and establishing realistic expectations.

Imaging May Be Needed

Ultrasound or MRI mapping Imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, can be critical in determining exactly how the scar tissue lies underneath the skin. These scans indicate the depth and thickness of the fibrosis so that the surgeon can strategize the safest approach.

Greater precision in imaging translates to greater precision in planning and fewer surprises when it comes to surgery. With an imaging, surgeons can see nerves or blood vessels to avoid damaging them, and tailor methods to what you need.

Setting Realistic Goals

If you have scar tissue, it is essential to understand what lipo can and cannot do. It’s important to set realistic expectations. Not every scar will disappear completely, and skin will not smooth out ideally.

Patients who go in with more realistic expectations are more often satisfied and pleased with their outcomes. Surgeons are able to give you the best indication of what you can expect and assist in establishing reasonable goals based on your individual circumstances.

After Lipo: Healing and Care

Healing post-liposuction takes a consistent and intentional touch. This is particularly crucial when working through scar tissue or fibrosis from prior surgeries. Effective aftercare will both reduce swelling and prevent bruising.

It further helps with preventing the development of hard lumps or bumps beneath the skin.

• Wear your compression garments as instructed, usually all but a few hours of the day during initial weeks.
• Keep the treated area clean and dry.
• Don’t lift anything too heavy or do any strenuous exercise until cleared by your physician to do so.
• Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals.
• Rest and keep the area raised when possible.
• Follow up with your surgeon as planned.

Following these recommendations will ensure that the skin heals nice and flat.

Managing Swelling and Bruising

Swelling effects are to be expected after lipo and will give the tissue a soft or puffy appearance. Compression garments are important to help reduce swelling and bruising. Most people notice that bruises go away and swelling decreases in a matter of weeks.

Laying down and elevating the treated area promotes blood flow and increases healing.

Role of Lymphatic Massage

This is where lymphatic massage can be beneficial, as it can reduce swelling and assist in breaking up any fibrosis. How soon can you start lymphatic massage after lipo? Afterwards, schedule follow-up sessions weekly as directed by your physician to help your body in the healing process.

A good therapist will understand how to access deep tissue in a non-painful fashion.

Patience: Healing Takes Time

Complete recovery can take anywhere from several weeks to a year. While early changes can occur within four to six weeks, it is important to understand that optimal results require time. Continued light care and regular visits with your physician allow them to monitor your advancement.

Monitoring for Complications

• Redness, warmth, or pain that gets worse
• Hard lumps or bumps that grow
• Fever or chills
• Discharge or foul smell from wounds

This is why frequent follow-up and immediate reporting of any new developments is key to catching complications early.

Beyond Lipo: Other Helpful Treatments

Surgical fibrosis can be difficult to treat. Though lipo is effective at breaking up scar tissue, it usually performs better when included in a larger treatment strategy. By combining treatments, we can offer people more options and be able to achieve better results.

Massage and Manual Therapies

Massage therapy is an important part of treating post-surgical fibrosis. Consistent sessions work to break down dense tissue, increase circulation, and reduce pain. Each type of manual therapy can address scarred areas uniquely.

For instance, lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, and deep-tissue work all provide different advantages. Each technique corresponds to a specific stage or type of fibrosis. To achieve optimal outcomes, individuals should receive care from trained therapists experienced in post-surgical therapeutic care.

They know how to create a program that best fits personal goals and needs, which reduces the chances of additional swelling or pain.

Energy Devices: A Boost?

Devices that offer energy-based treatment, like radiofrequency or ultrasound, provide an additional boost to the treatment process. These energy devices work by heating and/or vibrating tissue beneath the skin, helping to break up fibrosis and accelerate healing.

Ultrasound can help to loosen scar tissue, for instance, while radiofrequency helps with collagen production and improved skin quality. Not every case requires or is improved with the use of these devices.

There are potential risks such as burns or skin irritation, so discussing with a trained provider is important.

The Power of Movement

Gentle, restorative movement and safe, low-impact exercise can be an important part of the healing process. Stretching, walking, or participating in a guided movement keeps blood flowing and prevents scar tissue from becoming overly rigid.

Comprehensive PT treatment plans can be developed for acute, subacute, and chronic healing stages. An expert will demonstrate safe techniques and reps, ensuring that participants’ progress is both steady and safe.

Conclusion

Lipo provides people across Los Angeles a new lease on smoother skin and an improved natural shape. It does an excellent job addressing scar tissue or fibrosis from previous surgery. Each case has its own unique appearance. Some patients notice these as thick, ropy scars that interfere with movement, others as tight areas within the dermis. While lipo is effective at breaking up super tight tissue, the results are heavily variable based on scar formation and skin integrity. Combining lipo with basic aftercare, like massage, or even laser, really gets a majority of people on their way to feeling better and looking better. People need to consult with a recognized, board-certified cosmetic surgeon who is tuned into the LA environment and keeps his ear and eyes open to innovative techniques. Looking for tangible outcomes? Encourage honest dialogue, set expectations, and choose the most qualified care team to meet your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fibrosis after surgery?

After surgery, your body needs to heal, and that healing means fibrosis is created, which is a dense, fibrous scar tissue. It often feels thick or bumpy beneath the skin and can restrict movement or be painful.

Can liposuction remove old scar tissue?

This action is particularly effective when a skilled surgeon performs the liposuction, allowing the fat to break up and extract strongly fibrous scar tissue. Results depend on the extent and type of fibrosis.

Is it safe to do lipo on areas with previous surgery scars?

Yes, but only with a qualified, board-certified, experienced plastic surgeon. Be sure to consult an expert that specializes in treating scar tissue, and they will tailor the lipo technique to reduce risks and enhance results.

Will lipo make my fibrosis worse?

As long as this is done correctly, lipo typically does not make the fibrosis worse. If done incorrectly, it has the potential to worsen the fibrosis. So no matter what, always select a reputable and experienced surgeon.

How should I prepare for lipo on scar tissue?

Be honest about your complete medical history with your surgeon. Abide by all pre-op guidelines, such as discontinuing blood thinners, quitting smoking, and planning for post-operative support.

What can I do after lipo to help healing?

Take care of your body and follow your surgeon’s aftercare direction to the letter. That can mean wearing compression garments, performing gentle massage, or returning for follow-up visits – all of which are crucial to achieving optimal results.

Are there treatments besides lipo for surgical fibrosis?

Yes. These can be treated with massage therapy, ultrasound, steroid injections and laser treatments. Your physician should be able to help you determine the best treatment plan for your individual situation.