No Drainage when Seroma Was Aspirated? (photo)

Sermomas can occur after a tummy tuck and drain removal.  Aspiration with a needle usually addresses the issue.  If the skin flap is too thick, a regular length needle may not be long enough to drain the fluid.  Discuss ultrasound guided aspiration of a larger seroma with your surgeon and possibly replacement of a seroma catheter. These approaches should help resolve the matter.  Best the wishes.

Thank you for your question. It can often be difficult to aspirate seromas especially if they are small.It sounds as a your surgeon is concerned and is following you up appropriately. If the seroma is larger it may be easier to aspirate at your next appointment. In some cases ultrasound localization may also be helpful. Be sure to continue to follow-up with your plastic surgeon.

If a seroma is present, it is generally best to drain it promptly.

Occasionally it can be difficult to access the fluid.  There can be bits of blood, protein, etc. which can clog a needle.  However it is best to drain it or it can become infected, delay healing, etc.  It is better for healing if old blood and proteinaceous material is removed, and often a needle doesn't do the trick.

This can often be accomplished by opening a small opening in the central incision; sometimes a small drain is also placed, especially if the patient has to travel or lives very far away. The drain is removed once the fluid stops forming, and the patient packs the area with a small gauze for a short period of time.  It usually heals very well, and can prevent repeat frustrating visits.