How to help the body absorb the fluid from a seroma? (Photo)

Question

I recently found out I have a small seroma, my dr ( who is in Miami, I am in Chicago) told me by the looks of the ultrasound I took in the ER it is not enough fluid to be drained and it will likely absorb on its own but there is a chance it won’t and I would have to fly to Miami to have it drained. The mark it’s leaving is unsightly and not to mention uncomfortable and I can’t take the trip to Miami. What can I do to ensure my body absorbs the fluid?

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

Your photo is very suggestive of a seroma. The ER report could give specific information as to the volume. Though continuity of care is very important, I agree with many of the other respondents that you could ask your surgeon for a referral to a trusted colleague in Chicago for help. Best of luck.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photograph.  It appears that your seroma is visible, indicating that it is large enough to aspirate and treat.  I would see if your surgeon in Miami has a colleague in Chicago that would be willing to see you in-person.  That would help avoid a return flight for treatment. In the meantime use a compression garment over the area to help minimize the risk of the seroma growing. Hope this helps.

Ryan Hoffman, MD · Answer

I agree with my colleagues, that the best you can do is compress and massage the area. However, most times small seromas have needles placed into them and they are aspirated, something not easily done when your doctor is far away.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You can try wearing a compression garment for 24 hours a day for a little while making sure that spot is well compressed and limit any strenuous activity.  Besides that there is not much you can personally do.  Good luck.

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

Best thing you can do right now is to massage, wear your compression garment and a table over the area for 24/7 and give it time. I would give it three weeks and if not resolved I would have it drained. You don’t need to fly to Miami. Your doctor there could have you see an interventional radiologist who could do it under ultrasound guidance and place a drain.

How to help the body absorb the fluid from a seroma? (Photo)

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How to help the body absorb the fluid from a seroma? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma treatment

Answer: Seroma treatment

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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.