Possible pseudo-bursa 2 years after surgery. How should I approach my plastic surgeon?

Question

Hi, I'm 2 years post opp from a full tummy tuck and mastopexy after losing 100+ lbs. I started noticing a bulge 6 months after drains got taken out also it feels like there is fluid still there ( it shifts from side to side). I've expressed my concern to my P.S. And all he suggests is removing the excess skin. Will this resolve the awkward sensation. I'm scared that ill have to live the rest of my life with this discomfort. Any feedback would be great. Thank you.

Boris M. Ackerman, MD · Answer

Late Seroma after a tummy tuck
 
Your plastic surgeon should discuss with you your 
concerns.  Before proceeding with any further surgery an accurate diagnosis 
should be made.  Either an ultrasound, or a simple needle aspiration attempt 
should be made to determine if there is a seroma.  Only then an appropriate 
surgical plan can be formulated.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,It is important that you and your surgeon understand your issues clearly.  If you see movement of fullness from side to side and your surgeon doesn't, perhaps you need to get a second opinion.  Additionally, a quick and simple ultrasound will confirm the presence of a chronic seroma immediately.Best of luck!

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

It can be hard to tell in those who have experienced significant weight loss.  As mentioned, an ultrasound would easily diagnose whether there was a fluid collection but it is unusual to spontaneously develop a fluid collection 6 months after your procedure.  If you do have fluid, you want to remove it.  If you don't, you simply have relaxing skin that would benefit from further excisions.

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

A pseudo bursa and excess skin if present can be removed at the same time.  If you are unhappy with your surgeons recommendations seek other consults where a full examination can be performedDr Corbin

Possible pseudo-bursa 2 years after surgery. How should I approach my plastic surgeon?

Answers (4)

Answer: Pseudo bursa

Answer: Pseudo bursa

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.

Possible pseudo-bursa 2 years after surgery. How should I approach my plastic surgeon?

Answers (4)

Answer: Pseudo bursa

Answer: Pseudo bursa

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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.