What happens when a seroma becomes infected?
If the seroma is large in size, the area surrounding it may become inflamed and painful. If the seroma becomes infected, it may appear red and feel very tender and warm to the touch. Infected seromas often lead to the formation of an abscess, or a collection of pus.
How do I know if my seroma is infected?
In many cases, a seroma will have the appearance of a swollen lump, like a large cyst. It may also be tender or sore when touched. A clear discharge from the surgical incision is common when a seroma is present. You may have an infection if the discharge becomes bloody, changes color, or develops an odor.
How do you treat an infected seroma?
Seromas that are infected can be drained and treated with antibiotics or other medicines, and the patient will make a full recovery. Though most seromas are harmless, patients should pay attention to them. If a seroma becomes extremely large or if any other complications develop, patients should contact a doctor.
How do you get rid of seroma after mastectomy?
Needle Drainage Fine needle aspiration is the approach of choice to remove fluid from a seroma that is painful or persistent. In this procedure, the skin is numbed with a local anesthetic, and then a healthcare provider inserts a long, thin needle through the skin and into the seroma to drain the fluid.
When Should a seroma be aspirated?
In some cases, if there is an excessive amount of fluid, the seroma is very painful or it is putting a strain on the stitch line from surgery, it may have to be drained and this is called a seroma aspiration.
How long does seroma last after mastectomy?
[104] reported safe axillary dissection without drainage after breast-conserving surgery, although this required frequent seroma aspiration. All seromas resolved clinically within 1 month or within 4 months on ultrasonographic examination.
How long do seromas last after mastectomy?
What does a seroma feel like after mastectomy?
Seromas can appear about 7 to 10 days after surgery, after the drainage tubes have been removed. The breast area involved in the surgery may have a spot that’s swollen and feels like there is liquid under the skin.