Seroma after Brazilian Butt Lift - how can I treat it?

Question

I got my BBL in 2019 and there is a seroma in the middle of my right cheek. I am super insecure about it, especially now since losing weight makes it more noticeable (my left cheek gets smaller with the rest of my body; but because of the fluid on the right side, it appears much larger). I know there are risks of infection if I were to drain it, but I would like advice from professionals on what I should do, as I live in a state where there are not many surgeons who specialize in BBLs too.

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thankyou for your query. An established seroma, so many years after a BBL, will require more than just drainage. I have treated a few established seromas with drainage followed by curettage using a thin curette to scrape out the walls of the seroma, followed by insertion of a drain for a week or longer till the cavity collapses and seals. These treatments have, so far, all been successful. I had earlier tried drainage with injection of some chemicals (tetracycline) with variable results. Antibiotic coverage is important but I have not seen any infections with either of these techniques. Please find an experienced board certified Plastic surgeon in your area who can can help you with all your concerns. All the best!

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @xo_chaoticnonsense, thank you for your question. A personalized consultation is needed to make an adequate surgical that will prevent you from having to deal with the negative effects of bad practice later on. For more information and recommendations, it is best to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Eric Wright, MD · Answer

Draining the seroma can safely be performed under ultrasound guidance.  Though an infection is a risk, when performed with sterile technique, needle aspiration can be easily and safely performed under local anesthesia.  The swelling may be a liquified fat cyst from the transfer that upon drainage, does not return.  I would recommend following up with a board certified plastic surgeon for imaging and further management options as this is not likely to resolve without intervention.

Dr. Eric J. Wright

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Early seromas after liposuction and fat transfer are not that rare. However, those that stay for months or years (in your case) need to be treated. Seroma evacuation, ultrasound guided, should be the first step. This should be done by a radiologist. If seroma continues to come back, surgery, including removal of capsule like tissue formed around seroma may be needed. In person consultation with board certified surgeon, in case of surgery, is recommended.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear xo_chaoticnonsense,
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

Seroma after Brazilian Butt Lift - how can I treat it?

Answers (9)

Answer: Chronic seroma after fat transfer

Answer: Chronic seroma after fat transfer

Answer: Seroma after BBL

Answer: Seroma after BBL

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Everything you need to know about Brazilian Butt Lift

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Seroma after Brazilian Butt Lift - how can I treat it?

Answers (9)

Answer: Chronic seroma after fat transfer

Answer: Chronic seroma after fat transfer

Answer: Seroma after BBL

Answer: Seroma after BBL

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Brazilian Butt Lift

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