Can you have radiotherapy if you still have seroma after a mastectomy?

Hi. A large seroma can be drained prior to radiation therapy but it is not necessary. I generally recommend radiation therapy be postponed (as long as it is within the 2 month window) if there is a large hematoma (blood) because occasionally radiation will slow down the resolution of the fluid collection /lump which may cause cosmetic deformity or discomfort. Good luck and take care.

In the majority of cases there is fluid left behind in the mastectomy site.  This fluid can be drained if it is considered to be an issue.  Otherwise the radiation therapy can be performed.

Radiation can be given to a mastectomy site if there is a small amount of fluid present that doesn't change or deform the tissue that is left behind. If there is a significant amount of fluid, your doctor may want to have it drained away so that the radiation dose can be given appropriately to the right tissue.