I have a "complex" abdominal seroma 7 weeks after a free flap done as reconstruction for bilateral mastectomy?

Question

I had a bilateral mastectomy and a free flap reconstruction.The last abdominal drainage tube was removed after 5 weeks;it was still putting out 200ml per day.The next week I had a radiology guided abdominal tube inserted. Apparently, I have a "complex" seroma where fluid is in most of my abdomen.A week after this tube was inserted I'm still putting out 180ml daily.What's your experience with recovery of this seroma problem? Will this ever heal? The dr will evaluate in 2 weeks. Thanks

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

These areas  be opened and revised as well as injected.  Please find an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and member of the Aesthetic Society using the Smart Beauty Guide. These Plastic Surgeons can guide you on all aspects of facial surgery, breast augmentation and body procedures including tummy tucks or mommy makeovers!

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

After large surgery that you had it is common to have lots of fluid drainage. Seroma can be difficult and requires time to resolve. Work with your plastic surgeon. If it continues to drain that amount after another 2 weeks then there are few things one can do. It may require surgery to close the space.Samir Shureih MD.FACSsshureih@msn.com

William A. Terranova, MD (retired) · Answer

I'm sure your plastic surgeon can walk you through the next steps. But assuming the fluid output does not decrease significantly in the next week or two, the next step will be to inject a "sclerosing" agent through the drainage tube.  This agent will cause the front and back surfaces of the seroma cavity to adhere together and either eliminate (hopefully ) or at least significantly decrease the size of the seroma.  If that does not work, then a surgical procedure to remove the seroma cavity surfaces  (and basically "start over") will be needed.Good luck.

I have a "complex" abdominal seroma 7 weeks after a free flap done as reconstruction for bilateral mastectomy?

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I have a "complex" abdominal seroma 7 weeks after a free flap done as reconstruction for bilateral mastectomy?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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