Seroma following abdominoplasty 3 Months ago. Is this normal?

Question

I had a hernia repair surgery and simultaneous abdominoplasty on October 6, 2016. I have had edema since then and just in the last 48 hrs have developed a Seroma that is quite large. Is this a normal development this far out from surgery? Why would this happen 3 months out? My Dr. wants to drain it tomorrow. Is there any risk of it redeveloping? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

With #cosmeticsurgery such as #abdominoplasty, we have our patients start on vitamins and supplements two weeks before and two weeks after. We prefer VitaMedica, as we know the content of these surgical support vitamins. The program includes Arnica and Bromelain.  Most patients will be placed in an abdominal binder, which they will wear the first week. There is usually a fair amount of swelling and the binder should be opened several times a day so that there are no pressure points. After the first 7 to 10 days the patient is placed in an elastic garment for compression over the next six weeks. If you go to a doctor who uses #drains, they usually stay in 3-5 days but may be required to remain in longer. Within a few hours following surgery, abdominoplasty patients will walk in a slightly bent-over position. Strenuous activity and lifting of more than 10 pounds should be avoided for six weeks after surgery. Most patients are able to return to work and daily activities within two weeks of surgery. Swelling can persist for several months and will gradually improve and will look better at three months, six months, and even one year. Frequently the pubic area and the scrotal and penis area for men can become very swollen and discolored during the first two weeks due to gravity as this is the lowest area for swelling to accumulate.While there are a number of issues that may occur during the healing process it is always best to take your questions and concerns directly to your plastic surgeon in order to have the area examined and make sure that healing is progressing as it should.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Seromas can occur. It is a bit unusual to show up at 3 months after surgery. They often improve with serial aspiration.

Andrew Gear, MD · Answer

Seromas after abdominoplasty is a common problem.  It tends to correlate with patient size, BMI, concurrent liposuction, etc.  They do tend to recur after drainage, and may require serial taps, possible future drain placement if this fails and even a surgical I+D if it becomes chronic.  I well-fitted compression garment will help.

James E. Leake, MD (retired) · Answer

seroma is not unusual after your reported surgeries. draining the seroma is a good idea, and yes, they do come back. the progression should be 3-6 aspirations of this fluid pocket, and hopefully each time there is less fluid present. wear a good girdle or compression device to help close this pocket. decrease you torso twisting activities and repetitive bending at the waist. 3 months out is unusual.

Seroma following abdominoplasty 3 Months ago. Is this normal?

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Seroma following abdominoplasty 3 Months ago. Is this normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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