Can taking anti inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, help to reduce a seroma?

Question

I have quite a large stubborn seroma following the removal of breast implants 6 months ago. I took an ibuprofen today and it feels much more comfortable. I have had it aspirated but it refilled within a few days.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

You are right about feeling better--ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory medication that reduces pain and swelling, but it will NOT stop seroma formation. It will help discomfort, but will not have any influence on your seroma. In fact, if repeat aspiration is anticipated, ibuprofen could theoretically increase your risk of bleeding into the seroma cavity. Then, you will have a hematoma.You may wish to discuss placement of a drain to remove the seroma, and to allow instillation of sclerodesis solution (doxycycline) which may help your seroma to resolve. Periodic aspirations will sometimes do the job, but if the seroma cavity is large and the fluid accumulation rapid, you may need sclerodesis. Talk to your surgeon, but avoid ibuprofen. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Ibuprofen will not cause a resolution of a seroma.  Most seroma swelling breast augmentation results spontaneously.  In unusual circumstances aspiration or removal of the seroma fluid is necessary.

Can taking anti inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, help to reduce a seroma?

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Can taking anti inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, help to reduce a seroma?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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