How is a late onset seroma managed?

Question

My implants are 10 years old (sillicone, textured, under the muscle). My right breast became swollen and my surgeon has retired so I can't call him. I'm on antibiotics and had a scan which showed a seroma and no rupture. They did a fine needle aspiration and sent the fluid off for testing. No results yet. They are testing for BIA-ALCL and I assume infection also. If it's not ALCL or infection, how would this usually be managed? Am I definitely going to need more surgery?

Kim Taylor, FRACS · Answer

You seem to be in good hands, with the correct tests being performed.  The results should guide further treatment.  If they are negative & the seroma re accumulates then it is likely that you will need further surgery.  The possibilities are drainage, removal of implant or removal & replacement of implant.  Be sure to continue to follow up with your Plastic Surgeon & if you don't have the details of your implants, then try to track these down, it is very useful in revision cases with a new surgeon.  Kind regards Kim

Paul Phillips, MD · Answer

Glad to hear your surgeons are testing the fluid for BIA-ALCL and infection.  Treatment for this could be drainage, but often a revision surgery to remove the capsule and evacuate the seroma is needed.  Wish you the best, good luck!

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

It is good that your surgeons are testing the fluid appropriately. If there is no infection and no lymphoma, they may try to drain it but there is a reasonable chance further surgery would ultimately be needed.

How is a late onset seroma managed?

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