Bruises still there 6 weeks after surgery???

[kg062007]

Almost 6 weeks ago I had revision surgery, and im very happy with the results. Thee was no bruising immediately after the surgery, but about 5 days later some bruises showed up inn the area around the outside of my chest. Its been almost 6 weeks and those bruises still haven't gone away. Last time I had surgery, the bruises faded away in about 2 weeks.  What is going on?

[George Pope, M.D.]

Chances are that you developed a pocket of blood.  The blood can clot, and after a few days your body starts to break it down.  Some of the liquified blood oozes into the skin and a bruise is visible.  The breakdown and resolution of blood like this can take awhile.
If you are concerned, certainly talk to your surgeon about it.
Dr. Pope, MD

[kg062007]

My revision surgery only  consisted of liposuction of the chest, I think the bruises have gotten lighter, but I'm not sure. Could this possibly be hemosiderin staining or hyper pigmentation caused by the lipo?

[kg062007]

SO its been a while, and I have found out that my bruises arent bruises, but  either hemosiderin staining or hyper-pigmentation.  Is there any way to tell the 2 apart?

[George Pope, M.D.]

Hyperpigmentation is due to increased melanin pigment in skin cells, usually a response to sun exposure. Certain skin conditions like melasma can cause widespread hyperpigmentation.  Hemosiderin is iron pigment deposited in the skin as a breakdown product of red blood cells, usually from a hematoma or severe bruising.  This isn't related to sun exposure.  Given that you had a good bit of bleeding after your surgery, you are most likely looking at staining from the iron pigment.  It may or may not resolve over time.
Dr. Pope, MD