Should my seroma be drained or not? 3 weeks post op TT.

Question

At 3 weeks after TT my PS told me I had a small seroma develop. He said it is about 30cc and that it would be too small to drain and should resolve. I wear compression garment all the time. At 5 weeks the seroma does not appear any larger or smaller, there is no pain associated with it, but I can move the fluid around when pushing on my stomach. I am concerned that if left for too long it could turn into a pseudo bursa. Should I see about getting it drain under ultrasound, or give it more time?

Jane M. Rowley, MD · Answer

I always drain them, its easy and usually painless because the skin is numb.  Talk to your surgeon and let him know it bothers you.  It takes less than one minute.  Good luck, Jane

Cara Downey, MD · Answer

If I am able to remove the fluid in clinic with minimal discomfort, I believe that is the way to go. It is true that the body can handle small amounts of fluid without drainage but if the fluid is not resolving after 2 weeks of waiting, I would consider draining. It is also true that once the fluid in walled off by formation of a capsule, it may only be removed by another surgery.

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

If the seroma is small this can be treated conservatively. If there is an issue with the seroma causing pain or a problem with the wound it is best drained. Often the seroma will reaccumulate after drainage so there are pros and cons of drainage.

Ahmed Ali-Khan, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Hi thank you for your question. Most small seroma will disappear on their own over time. Its good that you don't think it has grown either. I would suggest assessing it again after 2 months. If there is no sign of it shrinking remind your surgeon about it as, you are quite correct, an encapsulated seroma is more of a nuisance - they sometimes require surgery rather than a simple needle procedure to deal with.
Best wishes.

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

First of all, congratulations on your tummy tuck, Lynn1106!
Small seromas such as yours usually don’t require treatment, as they resolve on their own. The fluid will naturally be reabsorbed by your body over time.
Still, you should make sure that you visit your reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon so that he can monitor your seroma.
Good luck!

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