I had a tummy tuck 7 weeks ago. I had 2 JP drains removed after 3weeks. I developed a large seroma. Will it absorb?

Thank you for the question.I believe that in some cases they do get absorbed by the body. A good option would be to get lymphatic massages, this normally helps with these cases.Dr. Campos

Hi there,Seroma is a known complication of body contouring surgery including tummy tucks.  When a small seroma develops early after drain removal it is certainly reasonable to aspirate in the office, and apply compression.  However, if a seroma persists it is advisable to consider surgical drainage, and removal of the seroma cavity which can form in persistent fluid collections.

While seroma formation (fluid collection after surgery) is rare, it is most common in patients who have undergone massive weight loss.  The JP drains are excellent devices, but cannot stay in forever.  When drains are removed and fluid accumulates, aspiration using a needle is performed.  Rarely is any study, such as ultrasound, needed to confirm the presence of the seroma.  As far as absorption, the body can absorb about 50cc each day, but if more accumulates, the aspiration is needed.  Often this is done a few times over a few days to weeks.  Keep the pressure garments on during this time.  

Seromas are quite common. If your surgeon is unable to aspirate it in the office you can have an ultrasound guided drainage. You just need to return to your surgeon and see if this is a possiblity and if he or she can help you arrange for this.

Please find an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
and member of the Aesthetic Society using the Smart Beauty Guide. These Plastic Surgeons can guide you on all
aspects of facial surgery, breast augmentation and body procedures including
tummy tucks or mommy makeovers!



A tummy tuck can be done as a solitary procedure. Many times the results are enhanced by adding
liposuction to the hip and love handle area.
A tummy tuck is also done in combination with a breast augmentation in a
mommy makeover.

Thank you for your question.  If you have a visible seroma 7 weeks after tummy tuck it needs to be drainedand the cavity if it is present removed.Although over a long period of time the seroma can resorb, when it does so it forms a seroma cavity and membrane which will detract from your final result.  Please see your plastic surgeon and insist that the seroma and the cavity be removed.  If the surgeon is unwilling and consult another plastic surgeon.