The production of fluid is a normal bodily occurrence after any operation. Therefore, tummy tuck seroma can occur, following tummy tuck procedures. One of the associated cosmetic surgery costs is the placement and removal of tummy tuck drains that are utilized to assist with seroma accumulation management during the recovery phase of the surgery.
When the body eventually slows the fluid production and healing occurs, the drains will begin to stop producing the normal liquid that can lead to tummy tuck seroma. Typically, the tummy tuck drains will be removed after a week or two when the production of fluid reaches less than 30 millimeters per day. The fluid production is carefully measured and recorded on a flow sheet that the patient will receive to use during the recovery period.
However, in about 1% of tummy tucks, after the tummy tuck drains are removed, the body will produce too much fluid and that fluid will begin to accumulate. This is called tummy tuck seroma and the excess fluid will need to be drained. This is very important to reduce post-operative risks to the patient.
Fortunately for the patient, drainage of tummy tuck seroma after the removal of the tummy tuck drains is a relatively simple affair. A small needle will be inserted into the fluid collection and the liquid will then be gently aspirated. This extra fluid will usually disappear after 2-5 aspirations.
Tummy tuck seroma needs to be addressed, since the growth of bacteria in the fluid, following the removal of tummy tuck drains can lead to infection.
Tummy tuck seroma should not be confused with a hematoma, which is a collection of blood, following a surgery. Each event carries its own risks – but are usually addressed with tummy tuck drains.
