Is it normal to have dents or dimpling after lipo?

Undergoing liposuction is a big step in realising one's physical appearance aspirations. In the hands of a qualified and experienced doctor with artistic and aesthetic sense, the results are often more than just satisfying. However, with any form of surgery, there are risks involved that a patient needs to be aware of. 

Overcorrection, contour irregularity, asymmetry, and scarring are complications associated with liposuction. However, according to a study, these can be avoided [1].

Skin dimpling is an unfortunate but common post-lipo complication, where excessive fat is removed, and the aesthetic appearance is overlooked. Contour deformities, such as skin dimpling, occur in about 20% of liposuction cases [2, 3, 4]. 

Causes of skin dimpling after liposuction 

•  The liposuction doctor uses inappropriate liposuction techniques or does not possess sufficient surgical fat removal and body contouring experience. 
• Aggressive suction on the treatment area, without due consideration for the muscular definition and degree of skin laxity, thus, leading to skin irregularities and dents 
• Unrealistic expectations and insufficient communication between the liposuction doctor and the patient before the surgery.

Liposuction is a clinically proven body contouring procedure requiring the doctor to have a 3D artistic understanding of the anatomical and surgical adipose layers [5] in order to achieve a smooth and aesthetically pleasing result for the patients.

A well-trained doctor with an eye for detail can avoid this, as mastery of liposuction requires a combination of scientific knowledge and artistry with precision, which are only attainable with clinical experience [6]. 

How do you fix a dent after liposuction? Corrective liposuction surgery for skin dimpling

Liposuction corrective is a procedure that corrects defects and improves the appearance, unfortunately, caused by a previous botched liposuction surgery. Corrective liposuction requires a doctor with skilled hands, years of experience and is focused on facial and body contouring.  

Dr Ivan Puah, Medical Director Amaris B. Clinic, is not just an accredited liposuction doctor in Singapore, but his forte also lies in performing liposuction corrective surgery. He has over 17 years of liposuction, body contouring and enhancement experience and has received numerous body sculpting training overseas, such as in Italy, the United States of America and Argentina. 

His keen eye for detail and aesthetic sense, coupled with practical knowledge, has enabled him to help many patients achieve their desired goals.

Dr Puah understands that each individual's body shape, fat anatomy, and muscle curvature are unique and will apply the most appropriate approach to address their issues effectively. 

It can never be overemphasised that when looking for a doctor for review procedure purposes, experience, qualification, and proven results are critical factors. In the hands of a doctor with all of these qualities, aspirations can be achieved safely, and hope will become a reality for those with issues that need to be corrected.

Reference

[1] Dixit VV, Wagh MS. Unfavourable Outcomes Of Liposuction And Their Management. Indian Journal Of Plastic Surgery: Official Publication Of The Association Of Plastic Surgeons Of India. 2013 

May; 46(2):377-392. DOI: 10.4103/0970-0358.118617. PMID: 24501474; PMCID: PMC3901919.

[2] Ca'rdenas-Camarena L. Lipoaspiration And Its Complications: A Safe Operation. Plast Reconstr Surg. (2003) 112:1435–41. doi: 10.1097/01.PRS.0000081469.07342.F2

[3] Wu S, Coombs DM, Gurunian R. Liposuction: Concepts, Safety, And Techniques In Body-Contouring Surgery. Cleve Clin J Med. (2020) 87:367–75. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.87a.19097

[4] Stephan PJ, Kenkel JM. Updates And Advances In Liposuction. Aesthet Surg J. (2010) 30:83–97. doi: 10.1177/1090820X10362728

[5] Rohrich RJ, Smith PD, Marcantonio DR, Kenkel JM. The Zones Of Adherence: Role In Minimising And Preventing Contour Deformities In Liposuction. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2001;107:1562–9. [Abstract] [Google Scholar]

[6] Dhami LD, Agarwal M. Safe Total Corporal Contouring With Large-Volume Liposuction For The Obese Patient. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2006;30:574–88. [Abstract] [Google Scholar]