Seroma

[lialiutza]

How long have I to suport this teribile disconfort and pains of the serous liquid accumulation in the subaxillar and (former)breast region?I had a bilateral mastectomy with sentinel ganglions extraction ,three weeks ago and two drains left.One was removed one week ago and the second -two days ago.
Can someone tell me for how long time after such a surgery ,does the seroma persist?

[lialiutza]

Thanks very much!I will definitely consult my surgeon!

[japdip]

It varies but until the space is filled OR the edges of the tissue "stick" thereby eliminating the vacant space the serum will most likely continue. I personally had to have one drain re-placed after being out for a few days. Some Surgeons will drain the seroma with a needle but my Surgeon thought that each time this needed to be done (several usually) there was a chance of infection; he preferred to re-insert the drain and I believe it stayed in place about 7 additional days at which time the two sides of the tissue made contact and left no vacant space. Don't hesitate to discuss the issue with your Surgeon because as long as the space remains there will be fluid production and as long as the space is filled with fluid the tissue edges/sides will not contact and "stick".  Regards ....