Is a seroma common after tummy tuck?

Previous studies reported widely varying rates of seroma after abdominoplasty: from one to fifty percent. Seromas commonly develop a few weeks after abdominoplasty. To prevent this fluid buildup, the surgeon may place a drain at the end of the procedure, which remains in place for a week or longer.

What is the fluid that comes out after a tummy tuck?

Plasma is fluid that develops outside of cells and normally transports nutrients around the body, while seroma is clear. Generally, you’ll notice the tummy tuck drains — thing plastic tubes — first remove plasma, which is red or pink, followed by yellow or clear seroma.

Should you aspirate a seroma?

Why should I have a seroma aspiration? In many cases the seroma will reabsorb. However, if the seroma is painful an aspiration can relieve the pain. If the swelling is putting strain on the stitch it may result in the wound opening up and leaking if it is not aspirated.

What causes pockets of fluid after surgery?

Surgery causes damage to the blood and lymph vessels and surrounding tissue. An inflammatory response occurs, and the severed vessels and tissues will produce clear fluid in response. This is why there is pain and swelling after surgery. In some cases, the fluid forms a pocket, which leads to the formation of a seroma.

What are the signs of a seroma?

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 much drainage is normal after abdominoplasty?

Drains are usually removed one week after surgery. Sometimes, they are left longer depending on the amount and color of the draining fluid. A total drainage of less than 25 CC’s of yellow colored fluid in 24 hours, is a good indicator for drain removal.

What happens if tummy tuck drains are removed too soon?

Usually, after a tummy tuck, seromas do not develop. However, seromas can form when the drains are removed too early. Very rarely, seromas can form even when the drains are in place. A seroma feels like a small water balloon.

What does seroma fluid look like?

How long does it take for a drain hole to heal?

The wound will take about 1 to 2 weeks to heal, depending on the size of the abscess. Healthy tissue will grow from the bottom and sides of the opening until it seals over.

How does a needle puncture aspiration drain a seroma?

Needle puncture aspiration The doctor removes the seroma fluid by placing a hypodermic needle into the seroma cavity and aspirating the fluid with a syringe. This is the first line treatment option to drain a seroma, and may require multiple aspirations over the course of days to weeks as the seroma may recur. Drain Placement

Why does the body produce clear fluid after surgery?

When blood vessels and lymphatics get damaged through the normal course of invasive surgical procedures, the body mounts an inflammatory response, resulting in the production of clear fluid. The body is able to absorb a certain amount of this inflammatory fluid each day.

What happens to the drains after a seroma surgery?

The drain is left in on constant suction until there is very little drainage coming from the seroma cavity over time.

What are the side effects of an abdominoplasty?

What are the complications and side effects of an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)? As expected, you will have pain and swelling after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medications as needed. Soreness may last for several weeks.

Is the belly button moved during an abdominoplasty?

Partial or mini-abdominoplasty Mini-abdominoplasties are done with shorter incisions and are often performed on people who have less excess skin. Your belly button most likely won’t be moved during this type of procedure. Your skin will be separated between the line of incision and your belly button.

What kind of surgery is an abdominoplasty?

An abdominoplasty is a procedure that flattens your abdomen by removing extra fat and skin and tightening muscles in your abdominal wall. This surgical procedure is also known as a tummy tuck. It is a major surgery, so it is important to educate yourself, thoroughly analyze your own situation,…