How do you know if you have a seroma? How long does it take for the seroma to encapsulate?

Dear Lauryen828,seroma is a collection of fluid which is easily detected during a physical examination. Ultrasound is another great tool to confirm the diagnosis. If you are concerned, I suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon or ask for a second opinion. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I would find a local plastic surgeon, who will charge you for the consultation, to examine you in person and determine the need for an ultrasound/intervention. I would ask your plastic surgeon if they know anyone in the area you are currently. Good luck.

but that is another topic.  Your surgeon should have someone covering for him/her and you should be in contact with that surgeon.  If you cannot return to their office, your only options are to call around and find a local plastic surgeon willing to see you an fee per appointment basis or you could see your primary physician and have an ultrasound ordered by them but why waste the money when a exam clearly will tell you if there is a seroma?  If neglected, it will encapsulate and you will form a pseudobursa that will persist until it is surgically removed or sclerosed... and if you do have a seroma of significant volume, you are forming that capsule as we speak.  But understand jiggly skin alone does not mean you have a seroma.  This is usually appreciated when in a standing position, you push on one side and the other side elevates like you were stepping on a water bed.