Seroma

What is it?

A seroma is an accumulation of serous fluid that occurs after surgery. Seromas usually develop between 7 – 10 days after the surgery. They can happen with any surgery but more often with breast surgeries such as mastectomy, lumpectomy, and breast reconstruction. A seroma can impair wound healing, cause discomfort, increase the risk of infection, and delay further treatment. There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of getting a seroma. These factors are:

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

How is a seroma managed?

During some surgeries, a drain may be placed to collect fluid from the surgical site and will be removed at a later time. No techniques have been found to always prevent a seroma from happening.

The fluid in a seroma can be removed by inserting a very fine needle and removing the fluid. This is called fine-needle aspiration and may need to be performed to  relieve the seroma. Often, seromas will go away without treatment.

When should you call your team?

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