Seroma needs draining; can I do it myself?

Question

I have had breast lift arm and thigh lift with existed tummy tuck in Budapest 10 days ago I have a lg seroma in my tummy and I can't get anyone to drain it for me I've been to dr and hospital and no one will help they say it will go on its own I know this is probably not the case so seriously considering buying the stuff and doing it myself

Ajay Mahajan, MD, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

It is not advisable for you to drain seromas yourself. This needs to be done under aseptic precautions otherwise you could end up with an infected seroma which would need a washout under general anaesthetic. Moreover, it would be very uncomfortable to do it yourself. Also, seromas tend to recollect and need to be drained at weekly intervals on a few occassions. It is very unfortunate that you have chosen to go to Budapest for your surgery as one of the most important aspects of surgery is the after care you recieve and you should be in a position to see your surgeon any time following the procedure.

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear gemkimSmall seromas do go away on their own. If the doctor was a plastic surgeon and thought your seroma was small and would go away on its own, you should follow his advice. If you feel unsure, get a second opinion.

Seroma needs draining; can I do it myself?

Answers (2)