I Have a Large Seroma 4 Years Post Tummy Tuck. I Have Moved out of State, How Can I Get This Fixed and Should I?

I'm sorry to hear about the complication you have experienced.   Based on your history, it is most likely that you are dealing with a chronic seroma. You will find that this type of fluid collection is surrounded by a relatively thick layer of scar tissue. Treatment will likely involve excision of the scar tissue (bursa)  through the existing tummy tuck incision line. Drains will be used.

 I would suggest that you meet with well experienced board certified plastic surgeons in your area.  you will need to feel comfortable and develop a level of trust  prior to selecting a plastic surgeon who you feel will be able to achieve their goals.

Best wishes.

Based on your question the seroma has been present since 2008. Ultra sound or CT scan of the area would be appropriate to determine the problem. After such a long time most seromas tend to form a very thick capsule and become solid inside. You need a work up to see what the problem is before any recommendations can be made. Are there any local surgeons you can see, does not have to be a plastic surgeon possibly a general surgeon

Thank you for your post. Seromas can be painful and cause a cosmetic deformity, as well as sometimes leak. The whole point of drains is to keep a seroma from happening in the first place. If a drainless procedure was performed, and you had a seroma, or you had drains that were pulled and you subsequently had a seroma, then you should be drained, otherwise a capsule builds around the fluid making it permanent. If a capsule builds around the seroma (pseudo bursa or encapsulated seroma) then the only way to remove the seroma is to surgically open the areas and excise the capsule, and close over drains to prevent another seroma from happening. If the seroma is encapsulated and is tight and painful, then it can be confused with just swelling or fat. An ultrasound is useful in distinguishing these and identifying the extent of the seroma. If the seroma is not yet encapsulated, then it is usually loose and has a 'fluid wave' or water bed type feel. Occasionally, a seroma can also become infected, especially if a permanent braided suture was used. This will have a hot, red appearance, and will eventually open up.Best wishes,Pablo Prichard, MD