What should I do when a seroma turns into a bursa and my abdomen continues to swell and cause discomfort 7 years later?

Question

I had a tummy tuck 7 years ago. I developed a seroma and required 2 weeks of syringe drainage after wearing drainage tubes. I got liposuction to reduce the tubelike bulge just above my incision line. I also had a bulge right above my naval and flapped over when I sat down. It has been 7 years and I still get uncomfortable swelling in my abdomen if I don’t wear a girdle. Any recommendations for my situation. I no longer live by my surgeon. I’m so unhappy with my results.

R. Brannon Claytor, MD, FACS · Answer

Challenging chronic seromas are a difficult situation. Often it is the patients unique anatomy which contributes to the scenario. The traditional tummy tuck operation removes the entire scarpa fascia which has been shown to have upwards of 17% of the lymphatic drainage for the abdominal wall. By preserving this layer the patient is able to keep intact their own drainage system. As a result NO DRAINS” are needed at the time of surgery as the excess fluid is reabsorbed by the lymphatics in scarpas fascia. Look for s Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you with your journey to your “IDEAL SELF”

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,I'm sorry to hear about your discomfort and concerns. I recommend that you see one or more board certified plastic surgeons in person for examination and advice. There may be a few options, including surgical incision of the tissue. All the best

Israel Manon, MD · Answer

Hello
I’m really sorry that you feel unhappy with your results and with the things that you’ve have deal with. You still have some choices to resolve your issue. I encourage you to visit a certified plastic surgeon to be evaluated again and give the best treatment recommendation specific on that. Try to find a doctor that you fill comfortable with. Good luck.

Dr. Israel Mañon
Certified Plastic Surgeon

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If you have a seroma cavity and a bursa then the only way to get rid of it is to excise it by elevating the abdominal flap.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Nadie,Sorry you experienced such a long time postoperative complication.  The answer is different with many surgeons.  I have treated seromas (a few years less than 7 years) with drainage, steroid injections and finally, excision.  The last procedure is usually the gold standard but I always try the least invasive first.  Go for several consultations.  If you have concerns about skin laxity or muscle wall weakness, the go for the revision which should address all of these concerns as well.GOod luck with whatever decision you decide.Dr T

What should I do when a seroma turns into a bursa and my abdomen continues to swell and cause discomfort 7 years later?

Answers (7)

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Post op seroma

Answer: Post op seroma

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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What should I do when a seroma turns into a bursa and my abdomen continues to swell and cause discomfort 7 years later?

Answers (7)

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Post op seroma

Answer: Post op seroma

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.