What is the cost to evacuate a seroma from one breast? Any California PS who do needle aspirations?

Question

Developed a seroma in my left breast after revision surgery. What's the cost of drainage in operating room with drains vs ultrasound guided needle aspiration? Would like a new PS.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

If a seroma has developed in the short-term after breast augmentation your surgeon should not charge you for it. A chronic seroma probably should not be treated by needle aspiration is there are potentially serious causes for it.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

A fee will depend upon what needs to be done.  How big is the seroma? How long have you had it?  Why aren't you going to your surgeon?  Ultrasound guided is a reasonable approach for some.

Edward J. Domanskis, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Breast seromas are not that common. They are more common in someone who has had a mastectomy and radiation. We have a very competent radiology team who can aspirate under radiological control to prevent injury to the implant. Another surgery may just increase the problem. If the seroma persists or recurs, I will have them place a seroma cath.

David Marcus, MD (retired) · Answer

Unfortunately there is no absolute answer to your question.  Your cost for revisionary surgery is at the discretion of the surgeon. Only you can answer what you feel is fair.  Personally I do not believe a surgeon should profit from revisionary work.  On the other hand, some sharing of the operating room costs can be a good compromise.  If your surgeon wants to do this at no cost to you then you have found not only a good doctor but a very compassionate and generous person too.  Good luck with the seroma. Needle aspiration may not be worth the risk if the seroma has been present longer than a week or two. The fluid isn't the problem, it's what is causing it.  If you do a needle aspiration your surgeon may want to send the fluid to the lab for evaluation.

What is the cost to evacuate a seroma from one breast? Any California PS who do needle aspirations?

Answers (4)

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