I have a seroma. Would my body actually absorb the fluids? (Photo)

Question

I am 3.5 weeks out po Tummy Tuck my PS ordered an ultrasound which shows fluids in the right abdomen quadrant and was told that my body would absorb fluids. I am currently applying compression on a daily basis per my PS. How long does it take to absorb? It's not painful, red or hard or anything. Thank you for your responses.

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

A seroma occurs when fluid accumulates under the skin, often following surgery. Any injured area secreted fluid and absorbs fluid, If the secretion is more than absorption, a bulge occurs. There are various ways that we can treat seromas, The most common treatment is serial drainage. Sometimes, a drain needs to be placed to speed it along. There are however other things which might help, but it's best left to your plastic surgeon to determine your best treatment. If left untreated, the seroma can develop a "rind" of scar tissue and become a chronic seroma, which could require a surgical correction. The good news is that yes, the body frequently absorbs seromas over time.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear abrown5673,
I understand your concern. Small seroma can be resorbed, but in case of large seromas, they should be drained. Without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Seroma after tummy tuck can be a frustrating problem. Eventually, a seroma will either be walled off (as your ultrasound indicated) or will be absorbed.  If the fluid collection affects the look of the tummy, this should be drained.  I usually leave drains until there is very little drainage, and I make patients wear the compression garment for 4 to 6 weeks.  Continue to follow up with your PS and follow his/her post-operative protocols as he/she knows how you are healing.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for the question. Generally speaking, seromas should be drained. Otherwise, a seroma cavity can form and cause more problems down the line. I would suggest that you see your surgeon for a re-evaluation. Best,

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.The length of time for a seroma to resolve is dependent on the size. When a seroma is small it can resolve in a couple weeks. If the seroma is larger and requires aspiration it can take a lot longer. The most important thing is to listen to your surgeon and follow their instructions so that you heal as quickly as you can.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question and congratulations on your procedure.  Small seromas can be absorbed by your body but it may take several days to weeks.  The larger the seromas the better it is to have it aspirated and treated with compression garments to help minimize recurrence.  I would follow along closely with your surgeon to ensure appropriate healing.  Best wishes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Your body will resorb the fluids from small seromas..  Larger seromas may require aspiration or other intervention.  Continue to follow the advice of your surgeon and communicate should it grow larger or if you have new concerns.

Paul B. Mills, MD · Answer

Seromas after tummy tucks are not uncommon and easily treated in most cases.  This often requires drainage using a needle through an area of the skin that is temporarily numb from surgery.  This is easily performed in the office.  Though seromas usually reaccumulate, the amount drained should gradually decrease each time until drainage in no longer necessary.  Typically the body can naturally eliminate an ounce or so of fluid without requiring drainage.  Based on your photos, it is difficult to discern if it is a seroma or just swelling.  However, a significant seroma should be drained if possible.  Thanks for the question and good luck.

Tarek V. Copty, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Abrown5673, 
Generally speaking seromas should be drained. A small seroma can be absorbed however a larger seroma needs draining or it can lead to further complications down the road. Discuss your concerns with your surgeon.
Best regards, 
Tarek V. Copty, MD FACS
American Board of Surgery 
American Board of Cosmetic Surgery 
Jordanian Board of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 
Fellow, American College of Surgeons
Fellow, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery 
Fellow, International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for writing,As others have said, small seromas can be absorbed and larger ones typically  do not resorb completely. If larger seromas are left for a longer period of time they can actually for a scarred sac around them and secondarily can cause visual changed in the abdominal wall. I recommend you follow your plastic surgeons post-op instructions carefully and completely. Good LuckStephen M. Davis, MD, FACS
Certified: American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Member: RealSelf Hall of Fame

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I have a seroma. Would my body actually absorb the fluids? (Photo)

Answers (10)

TUMMY TUCK PROVIDERS NEAR YOU