Liposuction Revision

Latest update: October 23, 2024
Medically reviewed by: Jordan Frey, MD

Details

Liposuction revision might be necessary if the initial surgery does not deliver good results. The surgery targets asymmetry, dimpling and any other issues caused by the first liposuction procedure.

The revision surgery can only be done six months or more after the initial procedure. Revisions are usually performed on the abdomen and the inner and outer thigh because the skin tends to be thinner.

The most common issues arising include uneven fat removal that creates lumps of fat and indentations in hollow areas. Too much or too little fat reduction can also cause problems as it cause the shape to appear disproportionate.

The technique used to correct the issue depends on the area of correction and the depth of the damage. It is easier to fix problems that lie in the deeper fatty tissues. They will require additional liposuction or fat grafting. Superficial issues are more challenging. In these cases, other procedures such as extra tightening might be necessary for effective results.

In a revision procedure, surgeons may use a few techniques. Liposculpture aims to contour and shape the body. It creates an even surface by suctioning out the accumulated pockets of fat that are causing bumps and lumps. Fat transfer can help in areas where there are hollow indentations.

During this procedure, fat is extracted from other regions of the body. The fat is then purified and injected into these depressions to fill and even out the area. Surgeons tend to make incisions in the same spot as the previous procedure to minimize scarring. 

Recovery for a liposuction revision surgery depends on the site corrected. Patients will experience some swelling and bruising for a few weeks. They will need to wear compression garments for better healing. Most people can return to work in a few days and get back to their normal activities in 2 weeks.
Anesthesia
local/general
Operation Time
Inpatient Period
n/a
Number of Appointments
Recovery Period
2 weeks
Invasiveness
yes

Revisions, skin problems and imperfection in liposuction

Dr. Howard Webster discusses the biggest problems linked with liposuction. He covers misconceptions and explains why certain imperfections happen. He talks about how different methods can be used to fix problems.