Seroma 5 months after tummy tuck. Do I need another surgery to remove the seroma? (photos)

Question

I had a tummy tuck procedure in Colombia five months ago, and I kept getting small seroma, which the Colombian doctor drained. When I came back to the US the collection of fluids remained but couldn’t find a doctor that would drain it for me. I’ve tried heat, diuretics, sauna, everything but with no luck. Do I need another surgery to remove the seroma?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  Unfortunately if a serum has persisted for this length of time it has likely developed a pseudo capsule around it which will require surgery to remove.  I would seek out surgeons in your area willing to help, but you may have to travel. Best wishes.

Joshua Kreithen, MD · Answer

Dear jovencita,
So, an untreated small seroma will likely lead to some permanent scarring.  It's likely that to remove the seroma cavity you will need some type of surgical intervention.  Hope this helps and good luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Seroma formation can be frustrating.  It's not uncommon to need multiple aspirations along with compression to help resolve them.  At times further intervention in the form of drains, or even surgery is needed. As you have had this issue persist for several months it is likely a capsule has formed and the seroma will require surgery to resolve it.  If you are unable to see your original surgeon you will need to find one in the US to help you, though as you've discovered it can be difficult to do.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Jovencita (young),The issues with doing surgical procedures abroad are when you experience complications.  After 5 months of a chronic fluid collection (seroma), you probably have a capsule formed around the collection which will not readily collapse with drainage alone.  You may want to seek out an Interventional Radiologist (IR Radiologist) who can use an ultrasound to locate the fluid pocket, polace a drain and then inject a sclerosing agent which makes the walls of the seroma irritated.  Draining the fluid and then wearing a garment with the drain in place for up to a week usually reduces or cures most seromas.  Sometimes, a second sclerosing trial is required.Alternately, you may seek out a board certified Plastic Surgeon who may open the pocket up and remove the seroma lining, place a drain and use a compressive garment until the drainage is minimal.Best of luck.Dr T

Seroma 5 months after tummy tuck. Do I need another surgery to remove the seroma? (photos)

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