I had a tummy tuck in 2008, and developed a seroma post-operatively. This was treated with serial draining and injecting sclerosing solution. I now have a large seroma (15cm x8cm x 4cm). The surgeon I saw since I have moved, tried to aspirate the fluid and was unable to remove much due to the viscosity of the fluid. I have moved from Virginia to Alaska, so seeing the original surgeon is not an option. What can I do? Kathy
October 11, 2012
Answer: Pseudo bursa
Hello,
Thank you for the question. I suspect you may have something called a pseudo bursa which is a pocket of scar tissue surrounding the seroma fluid. The ideal correction would involve complete removal of the pseudo bursa as well as any offending agents such as permanent sutures etc. Unfortunately this will require redoing a portion or all of the tummy tuck procedure. It seems like a lot but its worth doing the right thing once as opposed to repeated attempts at smaller treatments such as aspirations, etc.
All the best,
Dr Remus Repta
Helpful
October 11, 2012
Answer: Pseudo bursa
Hello,
Thank you for the question. I suspect you may have something called a pseudo bursa which is a pocket of scar tissue surrounding the seroma fluid. The ideal correction would involve complete removal of the pseudo bursa as well as any offending agents such as permanent sutures etc. Unfortunately this will require redoing a portion or all of the tummy tuck procedure. It seems like a lot but its worth doing the right thing once as opposed to repeated attempts at smaller treatments such as aspirations, etc.
All the best,
Dr Remus Repta
Helpful
October 10, 2012
Answer: Large Seroma 4 Years Post Tummy Tuck
If this has been present for four years, it is probably lined by a thick walled membrane/scar, that will probably require surgical excision. Plastic surgeons will typically have more experience dealing with these than will other surgeons, but a general surgeon willing to tackle this problem would also be appropriate.
Although a seroma seems the likeliest diagnosis, it is not the only possibility, so getting in to see a physician for evaluation seems appropriate.
Thank you for your question, best wishes.
Helpful
October 10, 2012
Answer: Large Seroma 4 Years Post Tummy Tuck
If this has been present for four years, it is probably lined by a thick walled membrane/scar, that will probably require surgical excision. Plastic surgeons will typically have more experience dealing with these than will other surgeons, but a general surgeon willing to tackle this problem would also be appropriate.
Although a seroma seems the likeliest diagnosis, it is not the only possibility, so getting in to see a physician for evaluation seems appropriate.
Thank you for your question, best wishes.
Helpful