What type of doctor should I see for a chronic seroma? (12 cm x 12 cm x 4 cm).

Question

8 years ago I had a bilateral TRAM post breast cancer (chemo, radiation & hormone therapy). Immediately a large seroma formed (right auxilla to left groin) which was removed multiple times, injected with TISSEAL and bacteria to get it to close. It finally closed and July 2013 a new seroma started from my left side toward belly button. Every 2 or 3 months I have to get it drained (400 CCs). I get short of breath because my abdomen cannot expand plus pain that feels like I am being ripped open.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Sounds like this has been going on for a very long time.  When aspirations and injections do not work, perhaps it's time to consider surgery to excise the seroma cavity (the linining of the cavity) and possibly use a VAC system to help with the closure and healing.

Matthew Kaufman, MD · Answer

You should see your plastic surgeon who did your TRAM flap.  They will be able to remove the cavity and hopefully eliminate you seroma issues.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

A chronic seroma can be a real problem.  If it has been present for several months then you may need to have the seroma capsule excised followed by compression and drainge.

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

Chronic seroma is a difficult problem. Plastic surgeons usually deal with seroma after breast reconstruction.This now could be a lymphatic drainage problem exacerbated by the radiation.

What type of doctor should I see for a chronic seroma? (12 cm x 12 cm x 4 cm).

Answers (4)