Massage for Reducing Swelling from Seroma?

Thanks for the great question -
Massage is not likely to prevent seroma but can be useful as a technique to reduce swelling.
Your lymphatics remove excess fluid from your tissues and return it to your circulation. After surgery some of these channels are cut and time is needed to allow regrowth of these pathways.
Massage can be an effective way to reduce swelling by recruiting other lymphatic channels to reduce some of the fluid.
I hope this helps.

Hello, Sheri Farmer. Thank you for your question regarding massage to reduce swelling from a seroma after a tummy tuck. Managing a seroma, which is a collection of fluid that builds up under the surface of your skin, is crucial for a smooth recovery. Properly performing massage can help in reducing or preventing swelling from a seroma. Here are some guidelines:

Firstly, always consult with your plastic surgeon before starting any massage technique. They can provide personalized instructions based on your specific condition. Using clean hands, gently apply light pressure with your fingertips around the seroma area. Use circular motions to help disperse the fluid. Avoid pressing directly on the seroma as it may cause discomfort or further complications. This specialized massage technique can help reduce swelling and improve fluid drainage. Begin by massaging the lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, and groin to stimulate the lymphatic system. Then, using light, sweeping motions, massage from the seroma area towards these lymph nodes. This encourages fluid movement towards areas where it can be naturally reabsorbed by your body.

While not a massage technique, keeping the affected area elevated can aid in reducing swelling. When resting, prop yourself up with pillows to elevate your abdomen above the level of your heart. Wearing compression garments as recommended by your surgeon can also help manage seroma fluid. These garments provide gentle pressure to the area, aiding in fluid dispersal and reducing swelling. Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet can support your body's natural healing processes. Proper nutrition helps in reducing inflammation and promotes faster recovery.

Always monitor the seroma area for signs of infection or increased swelling. If you experience redness, warmth, severe pain, or increased swelling, contact your plastic surgeon immediately. These could be signs of an infection or other complications requiring medical attention.

I hope these guidelines help you in managing your seroma. Good luck with your recovery, and be sure to follow up with your plastic surgeon for the best advice tailored to your situation.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

When abdominoplasty patients develop swelling in the
post-operative period, massage can be very helpful. In contrast, when patients
develop seromas, drainage is usually always indicated. Seromas are well formed collections
of fluid that won’t respond to massage. Failure to drain a seroma can result in
secondary complications.