Was this a hematoma? Once the fluid has been drained, can it come back? How can I prevent this?

Thanks for your inquiry and sorry for your struggles.  A seroma or hematoma can form post-operatively.  Your surgeon did the right thing to drain it seeing there was 100 cc.  It unfortunately can return and need to be drained again.  Please keep seeing your surgeon regularly to examined and best of luck.  

Thanks for your question. You most likely have a hematoma and possible seroma. Compression and decreased activity will help the healing process. Please follow up with your surgeon since it can reaccumulate. All the best,Dr. JSB

Thank you for your question. It sounds as if you may have had a hematoma.  Normally these develop in the first few days after surgery, and are problematic as they often require a return trip to the operating room to drain and remove.  There is a risk that fluid will reaccumulate, but will likely be with a thinner, golden color fluid as opposed to blood.  This is termed a seroma.  Your situation warrants close follow up with your surgeon to monitor for this reaccumulation, and treat it as needed. 

Hi mouse88This fluid may be a hematoma, but more likely a seroma which is a fluid collection similar to serum in blood.  It contains a variable amount of blood and thus has a redish color.  It will not contain clots like a hematoma will, and it is not a solid dark red consistency.The other doctors and your doctor gives good advice.  This is usually not a problem if you follow that advice.  However, sometimes these seromas are very resistant and return.  Some even require re-operation.  So, follow the advice.sek

Yes this is either old blood,  seroma fluid, or both and it can reaccumulate.  Compression, limited activity, and close follow will solve it.  It is a common occurrence and will not cause major problems unless it gets infected which is unlikely.  Make sure to get seen again.