I Had 10cc's of Fluid Removed from my Lower Abdomen After Tummy Tuck--will This Likely Need Additional Treatment?

I am 20 days post op from a full tummy tuck w/ lipo on my stomach/flanks. While the initial swelling has gone down quite a bit, I noticed one small area that had that "water bed" effect. I went into my surgeon immediately, and she drained 10cc's of fluid. She told me to continue wearing my binder and to restrict activity as much as possible for the next week. Is it likely I'll need to have the area drained again or should it go away on its own? Is this amount of fluid significant?

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3 weeks post-op causes drainage water retention

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by lk2007

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Seroma

Seromas are more common with tummy tucks combined with liposuction than when either procedure is done alone. However, 10 cc's is not a lot of fluid, and most seromas 'burn out" on their own. More than likely it will improve. Good luck.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Seroma resolution

Serums sometimes require more than one drainage procedure but 10 cc is a small amount so your plastic surgeon will make a judgment call going forward based on your condition. Continue to followup and don't overdo.

Three Tips to Preventing or Resolving a Seroma After Tummy Tuck

Seroma formation after tummy tuck is not unusual and are usually easily managed. Here are some tips to help quickly prevent and eliminate accumulation/re-accumulation of fluid (serum). Limit activities: if you are moving about a bit too much too soon (before the woulnd surfaces have a chance to stick toether) fluid will weep into the space. Physical activity can increase how much fluid (serum) is produced. this is usually the main culprit in... more

Seroma after tummy tuck

A seroma after a tummy tuck is not uncommon. A 10cc seroma is pretty small. I would have doubted that this would be visible on exam. Frequently they do require repeated aspiration. Continue to follow up on a regular basis and I do not believe you will have any long term problems associated with this. Thank you for your question.

Ralph R. Garramone, MD

7 reviews

Fort Myers Plastic Surgeon

Seroma after Tummy Tuck?

Thank you for the question. No, a 10 cc seroma is not likely to be significant in any way; it should not detract from the end results of your surgery. There is a significant chance however that further aspiration will be necessary. Continue to follow-up with your plastic surgeon. Best wishes.