Seroma

What is it?

A seroma is build up of serous fluid (the clear liquid part of blood) after surgery. Seromas usually develop between 7 to 10 days after surgery. They can happen with any surgery but are more likely with breast surgeries such as mastectomy, lumpectomy, and breast reconstruction. A seroma can impact wound healing, cause discomfort, increase the risk of infection, and delay further treatment. There are a number of things that can increase the risk of getting a seroma. These are: 

• Type of surgery and surgical technique (how the surgery is done). 
• Amount of drainage from the area after the surgery.
• Tumor size.
• Body mass index.
• Lymph node removal.

How is a seroma managed?

There is no way to completely prevent seromas from happening. During some surgeries, a drain may be placed to collect fluid from the surgical site and will be removed at a later time.

The fluid in a seroma can be removed by putting a very fine needle into the seroma and removing the fluid. This is called a fine-needle aspiration and may need to be done to relieve the seroma. Seromas often go away without treatment. 

When should you call your team?

If you notice a swollen area near the site of a recent surgery or have any new pain, call your provider.