Seroma on Ankle After Tumescent Liposuction?

Question

I had Tumescent Liposuction (3 ops in total from December 08 to April 09) for a condition called Lipoedema and the results are great, however it is nearly 3 months since my lower limb op (end of Feb) and I still have a pocket of swelling at my ankle.It is a small spongy ball and although I'm having weekly MLD massages and compression garments on each day there is still a spot of swelling. Is this likely to be a seroma or is it likely to be fat? And if seroma, can it resolve without draining?

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

The legs/ankles heal very slowly, and you already had an edema issue so this is not surprising. Anticipate at least 8-10 weeks for swelling to go down. Try to elevate the ankle at night time and this should assist in swelling reduction.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

It is more likely to be a pocket of lymphedema rather than a seroma of fat. This is likely taking more time to resolve due to your underlying condition in which the lymphatic system is compromised.

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have a seroma (fluid collection) in the area. Your surgeon can diagnose this by simply placing a needle into it and draining the fluid. If the fluid persists, a drain or sclerosing medication can be used.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

Patients who receive liposuction of the lower extremities can expect a significantly longer recovery process than other parts of the body. The lower extremities tend to swell more and tend to lose this swelling slower than other parts of the body. If the fluid is not absorbed by your body, it may travel down your extremity by gravity. If the fluid is collecting around your ankle a seroma is possible. At this time, you should consult your surgeon as they may want to drain this fluid with a small syringe and that they should recommend wrapping the area with a compressive stocking or bandage. This will prevent the fluid from reaccumulating.

John P. Di Saia, MD · Answer

Hello,
Ankle liposuction is not a routine operation. The complication rate is higher than in other areas of the body. Make sure you stay close to your doctor for follow-up visits to get this sorted out.

Seroma on Ankle After Tumescent Liposuction?

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