What happens if you don't treat a seroma? (Photo)

Question

I think I may have a small amount of fluid in my left breast 8 weeks post breast implant explantation. I have seen my surgeon several times and he never expressed any concern and there is no pain or discomfort at all. I only noticed my left breast feels a bit watery and if I hold it in just a certain way, I can get a little "wave" in my skin by poking it. What will happen if I just leave it alone, continue with my massage and red light therapy and nothing else? Thank you

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I would have recommended going to your plastic surgeon which you did.  Number one, a diagnosis can be made, maybe even without an ultrasound.  Number two, if this needs to be drained, the plastic surgeon has a much better chance of draining it than someone else.  Since you deny pain or discomfort, your body should slowly absorb the fluid.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Himansu Shah, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and photo. It is difficult to answer your question without examining you however a small seroma can resolve over time and a larger seroma may require drainage. It is best to follow up with your board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The body will often heal a small seroma with no extra intervention.  If your surgeon is aware of it and is following you closely it should be fine to allow the body to take care of it.  If you notice that it doesn't improve or it worsens, contact your surgeon on how to proceed.  They often can be drained easily in the office.

Benjamin J. Cousins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. With pressure and time, some seromas 
will absorb on their own in 2-3 weeks, maybe a bit longer. If not, discuss with your PRS 
checking the size and location of a fluid collection/seroma with an 
ultrasound and for drainage. It can also be drained with a needle and ultrasound 
guidance in the office or by a radiologist. If a seroma stays around for a long time, it can develop a 
capsule (pseudobursae) which is like a shell and will keep the fluid  coming back and filling up a seroma space or pocket even if it is drained, so this capsule
 would need to be removed in that case. Hope this helps.
Benjamin J. Cousins MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Miami,FL

Trent D. Douglas, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and doing your homework on RealSelf.  Seromas come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  Very small ones will absorb by themselves but larger ones may need to be drained to help complete the healing and recovery process.

Bao L. Phan, MD · Answer

Small fluid collections/ seromas following breast implant removal can happen sometimes.  If it’s just a small amount your body can usually absorb it   on its own as long as it is not getting larger.  Larger collections may need to be drained (often just under local anesthesia) to prevent pain, visible deformity, asymmetry and infection of the sterile fluid.  Follow up with your plastic surgeon as recommended and let them know if it gets larger.  Best wishes.

Matt Erdmann, MBChB, FRCS(Eng), FRCS (Plast) · Answer

The simple answer to this is that your body will absorb it in 90% of cases.  In a small number it may become encysted, which again very rarely might require either aspiration or even more rarely surgery. Continue what you are doing.

James Hoyt, MD (retired) · Answer

If left untreated, a seroma can potentially lead to various complications and discomfort. A seroma s a collection of clear fluid that can accumulate at a surgical site or following an injury, often resulting from the body’s normal response to tissue damage or surgery. Here are potential consequences of not treating a seroma: 1. Infection Risk: Untreated seromas may become a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Infection can cause localized pain, redness, swelling, and may even lead to systemic symptoms if it spreads.2. Persistent Discomfort: Seromas can cause discomfort, pain, and pressure due to the accumulation of fluid. Without intervention, these symptoms may persist, impacting the individual’s quality of life. 3. Delayed Healing: The presence of a seroma can hinder the normal healing process. It may prevent tissues from properly knitting together, potentially leading to delayed wound closure and prolonged recovery.4. Increased Size: Over time, a seroma can grow in size if left untreated. This enlargement can exacerbate the discomfort and increase the risk of other complications. 5. Impaired Functionality: In some cases, larger seromas may compress surrounding structures, affecting the normal function of organs or tissues. This can result in functional impairment and additional complications. 6. Formation of Fibrous Tissue: Chronic seromas may lead to the formation of fibrous tissue, creating a more persistent problem. Fibrosis can limit movement and cause ongoing discomfort. 7. Recurrence: Without appropriate management, seromas have a higher likelihood of recurring even if they have been drained initially. Recurrent seromas may require more extensive treatment. It is crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect the presence of a seroma or experience symptoms like swelling, pain, or fluid accumulation after surgery or trauma. Healthcare professionals can assess the condition, provide appropriate drainage if necessary, and address any underlying issues to prevent complications. Early interventions generally lead to better outcomes and reduces the risk of long-term consequences associated with untreated seromas.

What happens if you don't treat a seroma? (Photo)

Answers (8)

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