How to prevent seroma after breast implant removal under local anesthesia?

Question

I’m getting my saline breast implants removed under local anesthesia. I have no capsular contracture and they’re still soft so my dr suggested not to remove capsules. I’m reading a lot about seroma in patients and want to know how can I prevent this from happening to ensure a smooth recovery? Is local anesthesia painful?

Justin Perez, MD · Answer

Good question. Typically I place patients in some kind of compressive halter top-style wrap after implant removal. This helps compress down the space so that fluid cannot build up. Another way to decrease risk of seroma and fluid build up is to decrease shear (rubbing) forces on your chest -- this is why we advise patients to avoid heavy lifting or exercise for 4-6 weeks after surgery. There are a variety of other techniques that can be used to decrease fluid build up, such as placing a drain or placing deep stitches to help close down the pocket. Local anesthesia with slow, careful , and patient injection technique can be very comfortable. These details are all best discussed with the plastic surgeon ultimately performing your procedure. Hope that helps! Happy to help in the future in anyway if needed. 
Best,Dr. Perez

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear h2ogirl8,
there is no guarantee that you will avoid seroma. Meticulous surgical techniques and postoperative protocol can help reduce the risk. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Placing drains and steroids in the pocket can help minimize the risks of seromas after removal, especially if the capsules remain.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The best way to prevent seroma formation after implant removal is to closely follow your surgeon's advice and to use even compression during recovery.  Your surgeon will go over post op instructions with you.  Under local anesthesia you will still feel tugging sensation or pressure, but besides the injections to administer the anesthesia, you should not feel anything sharp.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  It is important to feel comfortable and confident in your surgical plan.

How to prevent seroma after breast implant removal under local anesthesia?

Answers (4)

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