Do I have a Seroma? Lower abdomen never flattened out after liposuction (Photo)

Question

I had liposuction in South Korea 10 months ago, and the day after the procedure I returned to the surgeon to have my surgery area (abdomen, flanks and back) squeezed. They didn’t give me drains after the surgery and instead pushed/massaged the fluid out of the wounds the next day. since then I had a strange shape to my abdomen where they had pushed the fluid down and it didn’t all get squeezed out. I was so hoping for a flat stomach, I am so disheartened.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest a revision surgery with an expert and you may need internal heating at the same time. consult us.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Witty65263,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You will need an examination to see if you have an organized seroma or residual fat that can be removed.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you are having.  An examination is needed to determine if you have seroma formation.  It appears you would benefit from a revision to your liposuction surgery.

Jonathan Cook, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi Witty65263, sorry to hear about your result. Looking at your pictures, you may have a seroma, but unfortunately it is not possible to say for sure without an in-person examination. In addition to a physical examination for signs of a "fluid wave" (and/or other tactile signs of a seroma), the use of ultrasound imaging would provide the answer for sure. 
If you do have a seroma from a procedure 10 months ago, it may need to be surgically removed. The body can form a capsule around a seroma which is called a "pseudo bursa," and which makes it almost impossible to treat with needles alone. If this is the case, by removing the bursa through a small incision (that can be hidden within the bikini line), it will possible to achieve your goal of having a flat stomach. 
On the other hand, if there is no seroma on examination, you may simply have an irregular contour after liposuction, which would require secondary liposuction to treat. I hope this helps, good luck!

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

The only way to determine what your problem is an examination. Although a residual seroma is possible, it is highly unlikely. Liposuction done properly does not require drains or squeezing" of the area by your "surgeon." From the pictures, the most likely problem is residual fat from a poorly done procedure. See an experienced plastic surgeon.

Do I have a Seroma? Lower abdomen never flattened out after liposuction (Photo)

Answers (6)