Seromas: an accumulation of fluids in tissues

Sometimes the side effect of surgery is more than just inflammation or edema and scar tissue, but a formation of a seroma may develop.
What is a seroma?
A seroma is a lump or mass that is formed due to accumulation of fluids with an organ or tissues of the body. It mostly occurs as a side effect of surgery. Common with breast-related surgery, there is a chance of a seroma developing. The seroma is a pocket filled with fluid and usually occurs due to injury to lymph tissues during surgery.

​How can lymphatic drainage help to drain my seroma?
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) massage is the best natural treatment for seromas. This is why even surgeons may recommend MLD when there is a seroma. Apart from treating seromas, this massage technique can also be helpful in preventing seromas and keeping the lymphatic system healthy in the area of trauma.
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In order to treat a seroma, the fluid in it has to be drained out. This is where a lymphatic massage can be helpful. The objective of MLD involves encouraging movement and draining out lymph fluid, so it moves through the lymphatic system. 
Picture
Ultrasound showing seroma of right chest wall post mastectomy
The fluid is then eliminated from the body. This treatment uses very light pressure, combined with soft pumping movements to drain the excess of fluid from the affected area towards the lymph nodes (where the fluid will be absorbed and eliminated). Apart from draining breast fluid from the seroma, MLD helps in quicker healing and reducing scar tissue, swelling, and pain.

Are seromas harmful?
Seromas are generally not harmful and are usually absorbed into the body on its own over time. However, for some, this process can take a lot of time - sometimes even a year for the seroma to be absorbed. This healing may be accompanied by hardening of tissues, and in some cases complications may be experienced due to the seroma. This could include pain, excess fluid buildup, a capsule formation, infection and fever. In such cases, it is important to see a doctor immediately.
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When do you need doctor intervention to treat your seroma?
Some seromas can form a capsule and remain in your body until they are removed surgically. If you start experiencing symptoms of an infection the seroma may have developed into an abscess and you need medical intervention, as it rarely disappears on its own.  

Consult your doctor immediately if:

  • You are presenting fever​
  • There is an increase of fluid build -up in the area
  • The seroma doesn’t get better
  • You feel pain
  • It puts excessive pressure on the area of surgery or injury, the skin, or an organ
  • You notice symptoms of infection like redness, warmth, or tenderness
Image: Pixabay, Pexels, Unsplash, Wikimedia Commons
Cerevisae, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Resources:  www.vodderschool.com
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is shared to the best of our knowledge and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and reliability, please note that Anne is not a medical doctor. The content shared is based on research from clinical papers, reputable sources, and professional experience in the field of massage therapy. This information should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional before starting any new treatment or therapy.
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