If excision of seroma pocket is required, is that an additional cost? (photos)

Question

I may have a pocket that has formed from seroma that needs to be surgically excised. Does the whole incision get re-opened? Is the recovery like it is with TT? Do surgeons charge additional for this if they performed the TT?

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.The recovery will depend on the size of the seroma. If the seroma is small it is a quick recovery and very little discomfort. You will have to discuss the cost with your surgeon, this will be up to them.

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and photos. Seromas are a known but unpleasant complication from an abdominoplasty. I usually try to treat them without surgical excision. Rarely, they become chronic and require surgical treatment. The extent of dissection depend on where the seroma is. Correction could require opening much of the original incision. Recovery is easier than the original surgery, but it will still take time to heal. As far as cost. that's between you and your surgeon. We all have different ways to deal with complications.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear cmgswan,every surgeon has a revision policy. Many involve reduced or even no fees for the surgeon (depending on the situation) while the patient may still be responsible for facility (the use of the operating room, staff, and supplies) and anesthesia fees. Best to go back to your surgeon and have a talk about your concerns again. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

George Volpe, MD · Answer

In most cases, seromas can be treated without surgical excision. Often, repeated needle aspiration if one develops a seroma following a tummy tuck will ultimately do the trick. Occasionally, a drain may need to be placed. In my practice (and I perform lots of abdominoplasties) I have not had to surgically excised a seroma nor place a drain. If the seroma has been there for quite some time and not treated early, that may be a reason for excision. Although many surgeons would not charge for this procedure, there may be associated fees such as anesthesia and operating room fees and usually the patient bears some responsibility for these fees.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you are having with a seroma.  Often times seromas can be treated successfully without surgery.  If surgery is necessary the degree will vary based on the size of the seroma and location.  The recovery should be relatively easy.  Each surgeon will have her/his own protocol on how complications are handled.  Often the surgeon's portion will be covered or discounted, but the patient is responsible for anesthesia (if needed) and the facility charges.  Speak with your surgeon to discuss their policy.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Great questions.  The length of the incision to remove the pseudo bursa will vary depending on where the pseudo bursa is at.  Recovery should be easier than the TT but a drain and an abdominal binder should still be needed.  The fee for doing so will vary from surgeon to surgeon.  For some surgeons the surgeons fee is waived and the patient is responsible for the OR and anesthesia costs.Good luck with your revision.Dr. Remus Repta

If excision of seroma pocket is required, is that an additional cost? (photos)

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