Is it possible to develop a seroma while drains are still in place?

Question

I am 10 days post op and still have two drains in. Both drains have been under 30 ml for the past 48 hours. I flew home (with the drains) and noticed when I got home and removed my compression garment that it appears I have a seroma. Is it possible to develop a seroma while drains are still in place?

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

It is possible but unusual to develop a serum if the drains are still in place.  If the drains are separated from the fluid by part of the tummy tuck which is already stuck down, fluid can accumulate.  The flying is probably not helping.  Is the surgeon that far away?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Unfortunately, yes, it is possible to develop a Seroma while drains are in place. Fluid can accumulate,  wall itself from the drains and result in a seroma. Hopefully, this is not the case.  It is very important for you to follow up with your board-certified plastic surgeon. If it indeed is a seroma, it may require needle aspiration.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns after tummy tuck surgery. Yes, it is possible to develop a  fluid accumulation, despite having drains in place. This may be because the drains are not functioning properly and/or the fluid accumulation is in a space not in communication with the drains. It will be important to differentiate a seroma from subcutaneous swelling;  best to run your concerns/questions directly by your plastic surgeon.  Best wishes.

Robert M. Kachenmeister, MD · Answer

Yes it is possible for a seroma (or hematoma for that matter) to occur with drains in place. As the tissues heal, the areas in contact with the drains can become separated from other areas and these areas can collect fluid. These can usually be tapped easily in the office. Contact your surgeon.

S. Daniel Golshani, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes,The drains could be clogged or twisted during the trip home. You may not have your drains on suction. Also, there might be a loculated seroma that does not have access to he drains. You may also have swelling, hematoma, or infection unrelated to a seroma. Call your doctor and ask him about  the correct management of the drains, including how to "strip" the drains which might help. Also, make sure to visit your surgeon  as soon as possible. Daniel Golshani, M.D., Beverly Hills.

Is it possible to develop a seroma while drains are still in place?

Answers (10)

Answer: Yes a seroma can occur with drains in place

Answer: Yes a seroma can occur with drains in place

Answer: Is it possible to develop a seroma while drains are still in place?

Answer: Is it possible to develop a seroma while drains are still in place?

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Is it possible to develop a seroma while drains are still in place?

Answers (10)

Answer: Yes a seroma can occur with drains in place

Answer: Yes a seroma can occur with drains in place

Answer: Is it possible to develop a seroma while drains are still in place?

Answer: Is it possible to develop a seroma while drains are still in place?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.