Can you sweat out a seroma? I am 1 month post op - had seroma partially aspirated 3 times but some fluid remained (Photo)

Question

My drain was removed at 5 days post op out put of 80cc, 2 days later I had a bunch of liquid Then I flew back to US with drain and recived instuxtions to remove it after 7 days output of 25cc. Liquid built up again, luckily I got a surgeon here in US to aspIrate it. He was able to get 100cc out then 30ccs 2 days later then 10cc. I left the office still with some liquid there and a water bed effect. I was wearing a sweat band for a day and sudenly all my liquid seems gone! Can I have sweated out?

Nathan Kludt, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. It is possible that the seroma resolved, however you should follow up with your surgeon to be sure. The compression from the sweat band may have helped. Best of luck, Dr. Kludt

Ryan Hoffman, MD · Answer

Your body is able to absorb fluid on its own usually about 25 cc in a 24 hour period. That is why we commonly take drains out when they are putting that amount out. Compression, decreased activity, and aspirations are used to treat post operative seromas.More concerning is travelling outside of the US to get cosmetic surgery. When you pay for surgery you are paying for your procedure and your post operative recovery. Medical tourism or travelling to get surgery you only pay for the surgery and a week of post operative care. It is a poor decision and people are subsequently left searching for a board certified plastic surgeon to deal with the fallout or complications after surgery.

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi cabSeromas don't get sweated out.  Likely the pressure on the seroma area likely was greater than the pressure pushing the fluid out, and therefore, the fluid was absorbed.  Aspiration is a cornerstone of treatment, and occasionally placement of another drain, or... in severe cases surgery.I would recommend keeping in close touch with your doctor in TX, discuss with him compression, and do not do things that cause bouncing as this will increase seroma risk at this time.Finally, you got lucky.  I don't recommend surgical tourism.  You are REALLY lucky that you found a doctor to treat your complication, as many will not touch another surgeon's complication.All the best to you.sek

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Seroma will be absorbed by your body and compression garment will help. It still need to be checked by your physician if any excess amount which can be aspirated.

Paul C. Dillon, MD · Answer

MAKE SURE YOU CONTACT YOUR SURGEON REGARDING THIS ISSUE
In my practice, I inject repeat seromas with a bit of steroid as well as an iodine containing solution (Betadine).  It seems to help.  Discuss this with your surgeon.  Make sure you wear the binder after any drainage.  I hope this helps.

Can you sweat out a seroma? I am 1 month post op - had seroma partially aspirated 3 times but some fluid remained (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

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Can you sweat out a seroma? I am 1 month post op - had seroma partially aspirated 3 times but some fluid remained (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.