How to Treat Scars After Liposuction: What You Need to Know

Liposuction is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to remove excess fat deposits and enhance the body's contours. There are several types of liposuction, each involving making small incisions in the body and using a suction device called a cannula to remove the fat.

Despite its benefits, one common concern is the appearance of scars after fat removal surgery. This can be a significant concern for prospective patients because scars can let others know a procedure was performed and could mar the results of liposuction.

That said, any surgery that cuts the skin will likely result in a wound that will be visible for some time. Liposuction incisions are no exception, but newer, minimally invasive techniques can lessen how stark the scarring is.

This guide delves into useful strategies to improve the appearance of liposuction scars, helping you achieve the smooth, ideal results you desire.

Understanding Liposuction Scars

Liposuction incisions are often strategically placed to minimize visibility. They only have to be large enough for the surgeon to fit a small wand-like instrument called a cannula, through which the target area will be numbed and have fat removed.

Although incisions are usually less than an inch in diameter, they can become scabs that can leave a visible scar. With advanced options like AirSclpt, these incisions are only two millimeters in diameter, meaning the scar will resemble a small freckle-like dot. See the above examples of AirSculpt liposuction scars on a variety of different skin types, body parts, and genders. These continue to fade as time passes.

However, individual healing responses and other factors can influence their appearance. Understanding these factors is crucial in managing expectations and optimizing liposuction scar care.

Different Types of Liposuction Scars

Scars from liposuction, typically small and strategically placed, vary by type:

• Keloids: Thick, raised scars that grow beyond the wound.

• Hypertrophic: Red, raised scars that stay within the injury boundary.

• Hyperpigmentation: Scars that become darker than the surrounding skin.

Other Concerns In Addition To Routine Scarring

Severe scarring after a fat removal procedure is usually rare. A skilled doctor should know how to minimize subsequent scarring.

Ideally, your surgeon will make the smallest possible incisions and place them where they are least visible. If scar tissue develops, it may be due to poor placement of the incisions during liposuction.

Hyperpigmentation is a side effect that can cause skin incisions to look more prominent after healing.

In a study of 600 liposuction patients, 1.3% developed a keloid, or overgrowth of scar tissue, at the incision sites. Some people have a genetic predisposition to building a keloid on the body. If you have a history of keloids, you should consider this when deciding whether to get liposuction.

After the liposuction treatment, you may be asked to wear compression garments on the treated areas. If you wear these garments correctly according to your doctor's instructions, you can reduce the risk of scarring after surgery.

Pre-Operative Measures to Reduce Scarring

Choose an Experienced Surgeon

It is paramount to select a qualified, trusted surgeon with extensive experience in liposuction procedures. A skilled cosmetic surgeon will employ advanced techniques to minimize incision sizes and place them in inconspicuous areas.

Pre-Surgery Skin Preparation

Proper skin preparation can enhance healing and reduce scar formation.

• Hydration: Well-hydrated skin (before and after surgery) is more resilient and heals better.

• Nutrient-Rich Diet: Consume a diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E to boost skin health.

• Avoid Smoking: Smoking impairs blood flow, hindering the healing process.

Post-Operative Care for Scar Reduction

Follow Your Surgeon's Instructions

When it comes to any invasive cosmetic surgery (a procedure requiring incisions), before and after pictures like the one above will show how scarring is not usually a significant concern. Our featured patient in the hero photo above received Stomach AirSculpt, which left two marks on each side, one just below the hip and the other near her bra rolls. These are about the size of freckles and will keep fading with time.

Although they are rarely severe, it is best practice to adhere to post-operative care instructions for optimal healing carefully. This includes:

• Wound Care: Keep incisions clean and dry to prevent infections. With AirSculpt lipo, you can shower 48 hours after your procedure.

• Compression Garments: Wear as directed to reduce swelling and support healing.

• Avoiding Strain: Refrain from strenuous activities that may stress the incision sites. You should take walks as soon as possible to help with lymphatic drainage.

Topical Treatments

Several topical treatments can promote healing and reduce the visibility of scars:

Silicone Gel Sheets: Widely recommended for their effectiveness in flattening and fading scars, silicone gel and gel sheets have become popular home treatments. Medical literature suggests that these methods can reduce scarring once the incisions close if you apply them as directed and use them regularly.

Researchers believe that silicone gel hydrates the skin and prevents the body from overcompensating for extra collagen cells during the healing process, causing swollen and noticeable scars. Many recommend this scar revision method as an early choice before other options.

Vitamin E Oil: Known for its skin healing properties, it can be applied gently to the scars.

Scar Creams: Products containing ingredients like onion extract and hyaluronic acid can be beneficial.

Scar Removal Treatments

None of these methods can remove the scar altogether, but they can reduce its appearance and improve other results, such as the retraction of the skin in the area where the fault occurred. Advanced treatments like laser therapy and microneedling can be effective for more pronounced scars. Professionals should administer these treatments for the best results.

Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion

A dermatologist may use chemical peels or microdermabrasion to treat scar tissue. These treatments can be performed in the dermatologist's office and require minimal recovery time.

The most common side effect is redness. Since all skin types react differently to this approach, you may have to repeat the treatment before the scar begins to disappear.

Cryotherapy-Based Approaches

Doctors can attempt to mask or remove hypertrophic and keloid scars with freezing cold temperatures. In this procedure, the scar tissue is cooled with nitrogen gas. The spot is then "detached" from the healthy skin tissue. Cryotherapy is relatively easy and quick to perform by the doctor, is performed on an outpatient basis, and causes little pain or discomfort.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a forefront technique in improving the appearance of scars following liposuction. By using concentrated light, this treatment gently removes the outer layer of skin and stimulates the underlying skin cells to promote healing and decrease scar visibility. Different types of lasers are used based on the scar type and skin condition, with fractional laser therapy being particularly effective for blending the scar into the surrounding skin, enhancing both texture and color.

Microneedling

Another innovative approach is microneedling, which involves using fine needles to create tiny punctures in the skin. This controlled skin injury triggers the body's natural healing process, increasing collagen production and encouraging new skin cells to grow. Over multiple sessions, microneedling can significantly reduce the prominence of scars by smoothing out the skin's surface and improving its overall texture. This technique is especially beneficial for atrophic scars that appear sunken and can help raise them to the level of surrounding skin.

Long-Term Strategies for Scar Minimization

Sun Protection

Exposure to the sun can darken scars, making them more noticeable. Always use sunscreen with high SPF on scar areas and avoid direct sun exposure.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle aids in overall skin health and scar improvement. This includes:

• Balanced Diet: Continual intake of vitamins and minerals that promote skin healing.

• Regular Exercise: Enhances blood flow and supports the healing process.

• Adequate Sleep: Essential for tissue repair and regeneration.

AirSculpt® Liposculpture Produces Minimal Scarring

Liposuction scars, while a common concern, can be effectively managed with the proper pre-and post-operative care. Still, patients who want to avoid massive scars after even a large-volume liposuction procedure can undergo an AirSculpt® procedure, which is designed to prioritize the patient's comfort, results, and recovery at all stages.  

AirSculpt® minimizes scarring after fat removal and transfer procedures because we do not use a scalpel to cut the skin, as most liposuction practices do. As AirSculpt founder and famed cosmetic surgeon Dr. Aaron Riollins explains, the process is designed to be as comfortable for patients as possible.

Instead of a large cut made with a scalpel, we use a two-millimeter-wide biopsy punch tool that only leaves a mark the size of a freckle (see the photos above for examples) after the entire fat removal procedure. This entry point is so tiny that it heals without needing stitches, allowing patients to achieve dramatic changes with minimal hassle.

If you want to permanently remove fat while reducing the possibility of massive scarring, contact the body sculpting center nearest you to learn more. Patients near San Diego can also reach out to our La Jolla AirSculpt office to schedule a complimentary consultation.