I have encapsulated seroma 10 weeks after fleur de lys abdominoplasty. Is there anything I can do to help it go away? (photo)

Question

I had a fleur de lys abdominoplasty 11 weeks ago and have developed a seroma which the PS says is now encapsulated. It has been drained 3 times - 5 wks ago (30cc), 4 wks ago (60cc) & 1 wk ago (60cc). On the last drain the fluid was reddish. I feel fine, the seroma is not painful and it's dead centre over the junction of the vertical and horizontal scars. The PS plan is for me to visit him again in about 3 months to make a decision about possible surgery.

Gregory T. Lynam, MD · Answer

This is a rare event and I have seen it only a few times in 10 years. 2 of my own patients and one from another office that was  6 or seven years out from a tummy tuck and not happy with the result. At this early stage I might try a seroma catherter placed by doctor in office or under ultrasound by radiologist. If it does not go away then surgery to remove a bursa is done and waiting to do the surgery 3 or more months a good idea.

Terrence Murphy, MD · Answer

A fluid collection beneath the skin or seroma is not terribly uncommon after an abdominoplasty. Typically it will resolve with serial drainage. Sometimes it can look a little pink because the previous drainage may have caused a bit of bleeding. 60 cc is fairly small and may resolve on its own. Other options would include placing a drain for a week or so or performing a procedure to remove the lining of the seroma. Follow along with you surgeon. It seems as if he is addressing at appropriately.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Interventional radiographic placement of a drainage system is indicated by your history. Also a medication that can irritate the seroma lining could be injected to cause the pocket to collapse...

I have encapsulated seroma 10 weeks after fleur de lys abdominoplasty. Is there anything I can do to help it go away? (photo)

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I have encapsulated seroma 10 weeks after fleur de lys abdominoplasty. Is there anything I can do to help it go away? (photo)

Answers (3)

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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.