fat necrosis

[Mesha.S]

I must apologize, for this is not breast related. I have only been able to find information on fat necrosis when it is breast related. I had 2 c-sections. After the last c-section, a large knot formed in my stomach; around the incision area. It was removed. I was told that it was fat necrosis. About 2 weeks after the surgery, another knot was found. This knot was about the size of a golf ball. The area was very painful. From that point, I was sent in for abdominoplasty. I had the tummy tuck on the 15th of March, 2005. I have had to have surgery again, to remove fat necrosis; debride the area. After the tummy-tuck, more knots were found around the incision area, they too were very painfull. I also had an infection in the area for about 5 months. My question is; can fat necrosis be harmful if it is not removed. I would rather not have surgey again, if it is not necessary. I would prefer to see a pain menagement spealist and take care of the pain instead of going under the knife again. I would greatly appreciate any info about fat necrosis. Thank you for your time.

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Mesha. S, Fat necrosis means that the tissue removed is dead tissue.  When area of tissue is dead there is no blood supply, the concern would be of continued infection and problems.  What to do regarding your specific situation would need to be based on a complete evaluation of the problem.  

[pitcrew]

I don't think you'll get an "offical" response being as your topic is not breast related. There are some great website out there that can help you one is www.makemeheal.com another is is www.breasthealthonline.com they have forums and ask a doctor sections. I can only tell you from a friends experience that if you leave fat necrosis, it can harbor infections making it ten times worse.