Seroma in pubic area, 18 months after surgery?

Question

I had laser assisted Liposuction on my full abdomen and love handles. Within couple days after the procedure notice lack of sensation and difficulty peeing. During post-op visit, my surgeon told me it's normal and due to liquid accumulation they injected during procedure. I was told it should go away within 6 months. 18 months later and after several imaging and Neurological tests, my latest CT scan shows I have seroma above my pubic area. All other possibilities are ruled out. How? Advice?

Larry C. Leverett, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, It is difficult to reliably sclerose a long standing seroma. It has well walled off now and will need to be excised. It's is a fairly easy operation, is not painful, and is very reliable.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry.  I suggest you give your plastic surgeon a call.  Seromas can occur after liposuction or excisional procedures like a tummy tuck.  Without reviewing your studies and examining you it is hard to advise.  Good Luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For any post surgical complications, it's best to get in touch with your surgeon to discuss the outcomes and any complications as they will be best suited to address your specific concerns.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your liposuction experience and I am sorry to hear of your recovery issues.  Seromas are discrete fluid collections that can occur after any procedure that leaves a "space" within the body.  This causes the body to want to place fluid in this area to "fill" the space left behind.  Though large seromas that cause issues are rare with liposuction, small ones that go unnoticed are not.  I would advise seeing your surgeon for an evaluation and discussion of treatment options.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Seromas are fluid collections in the body. They occur after many types of operations and, if small, can be asymptomatic. Larger ones can be symptomatic and if out this late may require resection by surgery. You should return and see your plastic surgeon and bring your imaging studies with you for them to review. They should be able to advise you on the size of the seroma and you can discuss a plan. Best, Dr. ALDO :)

Seroma in pubic area, 18 months after surgery?

Answers (5)