Fluid accumulation years after laser lipo? (Photo)

Question

I received laser Lipo in 2020. About two years after Lipo I started to feel some fluid accumulation and pain. The pain got worse and worse. I received an ultrasound and they found a very thick fluid accumulation in my abdomen is very painful. They are considering surgery to remove it. Wanted to know if there are any other options.

Arif Eroglu, MD · Answer

Hello; after Vaserlipo or Liposuction treatment, seroma may occur. If seroma is not treated earlier time period; it becomes chronic then. Afterwards, it turns into a recurrent cystic structure. In such seromas, that are not very large, curettage and pressure may work or sclerosing injection can be done as well. In large seromas, surgically; excision of the seroma wall is required.

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photos. They show a small fluid collection which we call a seroma. It is a possible complication of surgery.  The first treatment option for a seroma is drainage with a catheter.  If the fluid re- accumulates surgical removal can be considered. Wishing you the best of health.

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

If it is truly fluid and contained in the subcutaneous space, a needle aspiration may be adequate to drain it. If that happens I would consider sending the fluid off for analysis.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concern about fluid accumulation after your 2020 laser liposuction. Based on your ultrasound results, it seems you might have developed a seroma or a hematoma.
Understanding Seroma and Hematoma:
Seroma: This is an accumulation of serous fluid, produced by your body as part of the healing process. Sometimes, post-liposuction, the body creates an excess of this fluid, leading to a seroma.
Hematoma: This involves a collection of blood that initially remains liquid, then solidifies, and eventually liquefies, forming a pocket surrounded by scar tissue.
Treatment Options:
Needle Aspiration: A minimally invasive option is to use ultrasound or CT guidance to insert a needle into the area and aspirate the fluid. This method is effective if the fluid is in a state that allows for needle extraction.
Drain Placement: If needle aspiration is ineffective due to the fluid's consistency or location, the placement of a drain under guidance might be an alternative.
Surgical Intervention: In cases where the fluid is too thick or if other methods fail, surgical removal might be necessary.
Next Steps: It's crucial to consult with your surgeon or a specialist in this field to determine the most appropriate course of action based on the specific characteristics of your case.
Please remember, each case is unique, and a tailored approach is always best. I'm here to assist with any further questions or concerns you might have.
Wishing you a swift resolution to this issue.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Fluid collections after surgery are usually referred to as seromas (a collection of serum)
Post operative seromas should be treated by draining them on a regular basis. If this is not done, the fluid collection can become encapsulated, sometimes called a chronic seroma. Once encapsulated, the fluid collection can no longer be treated by simply draining it.
Once a capsule has formed open surgical excision of the capsule with placement of a drain is usually needed.
A chronic seroma typically does not cause significant pain. Severe pain, especially if it’s rapid in onset could represent something serious that may need early intervention.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Fluid accumulation years after laser lipo? (Photo)

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