Post-Surgical Seroma

A seroma is a sterile collection of fluid under the skin, usually at the site of a surgical incision. Fluid builds up under the skin where tissue was removed. It may form soon after your surgery. Or it may form up to about 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. It may look like a swollen lump and feel tender or sore.

A small seroma isn't dangerous. Depending on its size and symptoms, it may not need to be treated. The seroma may go away on its own in a few weeks or months. Your body slowly absorbs the fluid. No medicine will make it go away faster. But if you have a large seroma or if it's causing pain, your healthcare provider may drain it. This is done with a syringe and needle. Or the provider may put in a drain. Seromas can return and may need to be drained multiple times. In some cases, it can become infected or turn into an abscess. In rare cases, you may need a minor procedure to remove the seroma. Long-term problems from a seroma are rare.

Home care

You may be given medicines to relieve pain. These may include acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Take these as directed. Check the seroma daily for the signs of infection listed below.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider as advised.

When to get medical care

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these:

• Signs of infection:

  • Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your provider

  • Chills

  • Seroma or skin around it feels warm

  • Pain in the seroma that gets worse

  • Redness or swelling that gets worse

• Drainage from the seroma that is white, colored, or bloody. Clear or slightly pink fluid leaking is normal.

• Wound opens up

• Fast heart rate

Call 911

Call 911 if you have any of these:

• Shortness of breath

• Trouble breathing