Liposuction: Q&A

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Can I Drain a Seroma Myself?

I think I might have a seroma because there's a fluid pocket in one of the areas I had lipo on.  Do I have to go to the doctor, or can I just drain it myself (with a syringe)?

11 Doctor Answers | Asked by anon
+4

Seroma after liposuction

Obviously you should not drain a seroma by yourself, since it could become infected. Drainage of a seroma requires sterile conditions. Occasionally, a drain needs to be placed, all judgments your board certified plastic surgeon is equipped to make with you. The interesting question is why you have a seroma. They are usually exceedingly rare with liposuction alone. Techniques such as Vaser, UAL or laser cause additional damage to the tissues and therefore a stronger inflammatory response... more
+3

Don't drain your own seroma

There are several good reasons you should not drain the seroma yourself. As physicians, it is generally advised that we don't treat ourselves and family. Or as the saying goes: A doctor who treats him/herself has a fool for a patient. Most importantly, it may not be a seroma and this could result in other unforeseen complications which you are not prepared to manage. Seek you doctor's advice. If it requires drainage, they are best equipped to perform it and confirm the diagnosis. If... more
+3

See your surgeon

You need to be evaluated by your surgeon, and my guess is that he or she will be happy to do so. Please see them, and don't stick needles into yourself.

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+3

Don't drain seroma yourself

No Do not drain your seroma yourself. You can get the seroma infected, which will turn into an abscess. An abscess will require open drainage and will make the condition much worse.
+3

Please go to your doctor

Your doctor will be there for you to address all issues after surgery.  I have personally never had to drain a seroma on a liposuction patient of mine, so I wouldn't recommend that you stick needles into yourself and risk getting an infection.  Please call your doctor and ask to be seen tomorrow!
+2

Seroma

I would advise you NOT to drain the seroma, this can lead to infection. Contact your surgeon immediately to have this done. Best of luck to you.
+2

Plastic surgeon needs to drain seroma after liposuction.

Hi. You need to be examined right away. Seromas after liposuction are really rare, and you may have a different problem. In any case, don't do anything yourself.
+1

If You Think You May Have a Seroma Following Liposuction, Make Sure to Consult With a Plastic Surgeon; Do Not Drain On Your Own

Although drainage of a seroma in the hands of an experienced plastic surgeon is a relatively simple procedure, it could be very dangerous in the hands of someone who doesn’t know what he’s doing. The potential for injury to deeper anatomic structures is real and could potentially be life threatening. It could also result in the development of severe infections if sterile technique is not followed. For all these reasons, if your experiencing this type of problems it’s... more
+1

Can I Drain a Seroma Myself?

It is very unwise to stick yourself in an attempt to drain fluid following surgery. First, you should contact and go see your surgeon to evaluate the area of swelling. Secondly, sometimes when people try to stick themselves they have a vasovagal reaction and pass out causing more problems. Thirdly, you can cause an infection which will further complicate your recovery.
+1

Treatment of Seroma?

Thank you for the question. Your seroma should be drained by your plastic surgeon to avoid further and/or worse complications. Best wishes.
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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.

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