Breast Reconstruction: Seromas Pre and Post-Operative Assessment

Breast reconstruction complications are possible as is the case with any surgery. A possible complication in breast reconstruction is the development of a seroma. Here we look at the pre and post-operative assessment of seromas after autologous or implant-based breast reconstruction.

I speak to two ASPS board certified plastic surgeons from PRMA in San Antonio, Dr. Ramon Garza III and Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo. I feel fortunate to share this information with the reader. The video in the blog will give a detailed explanation of pre and post-operative assessment of seromas. You can subscribe to DiepCFoundation YouTube channel after watching the video for a variety of educational topics on breast reconstruction.

Dr. Garza begins the discussion by explaining who might be more prone than others to complications such as seromas after breast reconstruction. It is important to point out that their practice at PRMA carefully screens patients prior to surgery to suggests changes to minimize the risks of seromas.

Who is more Prone to Seromas?

• Patients who have a higher BMI – suggestion: weight loss.
• Have a history of smoking – suggestion: smoking cessation, hopefully lifelong for optimal health benefits.
• Patients who are diabetic – full assessment of patient’s health to minimize risks and complications due to diabetes.

Next, we ask Dr. Garza the signs and symptoms of a seroma might look like. Drains are put in place to help the body with removal of surgical fluid but here are some things you might look for.

Signs and Symptoms of Seromas

• Patients might feel a fluid wave when they change positions.
• They might be able to hear or feel the fluid.
• A bulge or swelling may be noticeable at the surgical site. This should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon to confirm if it is a seroma.
• Diagnostic imaging may be used, an ultrasound or CT scan if warranted, after surgery to assess the fluid to see if it is in fact a seroma. This can oftentimes be done in office.

When patients are in recovery after breast reconstruction of any kind, autologous or implant-based, it is important to monitor your health post-operatively. Report any of the above-mentioned signs to your plastic surgeon’s office so that measures can be put in place to improve your comfort and ultimately with the outcome of the surgery.

Another tip for patients, when you are having your initial consult, ask how you will communicate to the office of your plastic surgeon when you are recovering from breast reconstruction. Will you email your nurse? Is a phone call a better method of addressing any post-operative concerns? This will give you peace of mind before your surgery knowing how your individual practice handles any complications that may arise after surgery.

Thank you to Dr. Garza for this valuable explanation. In Seromas Part II, Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo explains evaluation and treatment of seromas.

Disclaimer

References made to my surgical group, surgeon and healthcare team are made because they are aligned with my values and met my criterion after I did research of their practices and success rates. Any other healthcare provider that displays the same skill, compassion education and outreach to patients will be given consideration and recognition on this website.  The information contained on this website is not a substitute for or should be construed as medical advice. Please consult a licensed physician for medical advice.