Seroma

A seroma is a localized collection of clear serous fluid that develops under the skin after surgery or trauma, often where tissues have been separated or removed. It commonly follows procedures that create significant dead space—such as tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), liposuction, or breast operations—and usually presents as swelling, a soft fluctuant area, mild discomfort, or a sense of pressure; diagnosis is primarily clinical and can be confirmed with ultrasound when needed.

Many small seromas resolve on their own, but persistent or large collections may require needle aspiration, placement of drains, or surgical drainage, and preventive strategies include careful intraoperative technique, quilting sutures, and compression garments to reduce recurrence. Untreated seromas can delay wound healing, increase the risk of infection, or form a chronic capsule that needs further treatment, so timely assessment by your surgical team is important if a fluid collection is suspected after an operation.