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<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nSeromas seem to form as a response to the dead space within the tissue that was removed during surgery. In some cases, mild surgery can cause a seroma, but they are most likely seen after a more extensive procedure where a lot of tissue is removed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They often occur after certain types of surgeries to treat breast cancer but develop after other surgical procedures as well, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Plastic or cosmetic surgery<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Plastic reconstructive surgery<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Breast implants or reduction<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Hernia repair<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n
Risk Factors for Seromas<\/h3>\n\n\n
Several risk factors may make it more likely you develop a seroma, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Older age<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Take blood-thinning medications<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Had extensive surgery<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Have a history of seromas following surgical procedures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n
What to do if You Develop Seromas<\/h2>\n\n\n
Seromas usually develop 7-10 days after surgery. It will look like a cyst and there will likely be a clear discharge coming out of the surgical incision. They can sometimes be painful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most seromas will be reabsorbed into the body and heal naturally<\/a>. This usually happens within a month but can take up to a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are a few things you can do to try and prevent and\/or treat your seromas at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Prior to surgery, ask your surgeon if there is anything you can do to reduce the risk of developing seromas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ask your surgeon about compression garments and if they may be helpful.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Take it easy as you recover. Avoid any strenuous activity like runs through Pufferbelly Trail.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Clean the area as directed. Preventing infections will reduce the risk of developing seromas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Take over-the-counter pain medication for any discomfort or inflammation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- If a seroma or seromas do develop, you can apply heat to the area for 15 minutes every few hours. This can help the seroma drain and ease discomfort.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- If the seroma does not go away on its own, your doctor can drain it or surgically remove it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n
Complications from Seromas<\/h2>\n\n\n
Rarely seromas can become infected and turn into an abscess. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor right away if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Your seroma becomes painful, swollen or warm to the touch<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- You develop a fever or chills<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- White or bloody drainage is coming from the seroma<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Rapid heart rate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
If you have any questions or concerns<\/a> or wish to schedule an appointment, call Ear, Nose & Throat Associates, P.C. today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n