Is swelling after seroma drainage normal?

Question

I had gynecomastia surgery 6 weeks ago. After the drains were removed, I developed a seroma on one side. It was drained 5x, until my surgeon couldn't drain any more. I now have swelling on that side. It was told it could also be scar tissue, and I should massage it to help it go away. I have been, but it's been a week since then, and the swelling doesn't seem to have changed at all. It's worse at night. Is this normal after a seroma? When will it go away? I'm concerned a pseudobursa developed.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Though you may have some swelling in the tissues as a result of surgery and the repeated aspirations my greatest concern would be that you have some reaccumulation of fluid in your seroma.  An ultrasound can confirm this and lead to appropriate drainage if warranted.  Hope this helps.

Anup Dhir, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. If if difficult to assess the cause of the swelling without examining you. You should arrange to see your surgeon for an assessment.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You would have to be seen in person. A seroma can cause prolonged swelling, but it is possible that it is still accumulating fluid.

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

even if you have some fluid after 5 aspirations, this fluid will almost always go away with time - several months sometimes. you can get an ultrasound which can quantify it and then repeat the ultrasound 3-4 weeks later and confirm that it has gotten a bit smaller. the key is to be patient and not rush into anything.you should continue to do follow ups with your plastic surgeon.david berman md

Is swelling after seroma drainage normal?

Answers (4)