A seroma is a buildup of fluid inside the body that most commonly occurs after surgery. When tissues are cut or separated (either as a result of surgery or trauma), the body produces serous fluid to fill these gaps as part of the healing process. If the body produces this fluid faster than it is reabsorbed, seromas will form. Though seromas are not usually medically dangerous, their presence and symptoms, such as pain and redness, can be frustrating for patients. If you have a surgery planned and want to avoid any such complications, continue reading to find our tips on how to avoid seroma after cosmetic surgery.
How to Avoid Seroma After Cosmetic Surgery
Seromas can occur after any surgery, although they are most commonly associated with plastic and reconstructive surgeries. Interestingly, the complication is frequently associated with breast surgery, which some research has shown to have a 3 to 85% incidence rate.
Because of the potentially high chances of developing seroma, it can be helpful for patients to take as many precautions as possible to minimize their risk and avoid the accompanying pain and discomfort. Consider the following tips to avoid a seroma after cosmetic surgery.
Follow Post-Op Instructions
After oculofacial plastic surgery, your surgeon will provide you with post-op instructions. It is critical to follow these instructions exactly as advised. The instructions will be specifically tailored to your surgery and body. Post-op instructions can vary, but there are common ways to reduce your risk of a seroma. These instructions may include proper wound care, drain management, limiting certain physical activities, and wearing your compression garments.
Manage Surgical Drains
Depending on the type of surgery you have, you may have surgical drains. These drains are responsible for removing excess fluid as you heal, especially during the early stages of your recovery process, right after surgery. To reduce your risk of a seroma, take good care of the surgical drains by performing regular maintenance duties, such as cleaning and monitoring their output. Only clear them when your surgeon clears you to do so, typically at your post-op appointment.
Wear Your Compression Garments
Compression garments are a common healing tool after cosmetic surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how often to wear them. Compression is important after surgery because it limits the distance (dead space) between your skin and underlying tissue, making it more difficult for fluid to pool within the body. You may be tempted to skip wearing your compression garments or not wear them as advised. Resist this temptation, as it can lead to serious issues and impact your results.
Avoid Strenuous Activity
Every surgery has a different recovery timeline. It is essential to thoroughly discuss movement with your surgeon after the operation. You should focus on resting for the first few days to one week. Your doctor may recommend gentle walking or light movement to help improve circulation and promote healing. Light movement can also reduce your risk of blood clots. However, you should avoid strenuous physical activity for up to a month. Wait until your surgeon clears you to partake in exercise or heavy lifting to avoid the risk of getting a seroma. Overexertion too easily can cause stress and trigger fluid buildup.
Avoid Smoking
It is best to avoid smoking altogether. However, many smokers are only able to quit for a few weeks before and after surgery. It is critical to let your surgeon know you are a smoker and follow their instructions before and after surgery regarding smoking. Smoking impairs wound healing and can complicate the surgical process. It also increases the risk of infection and seromas. Avoid smoking as much as possible if you undergo plastic surgery.
Monitor Your Symptoms
The recovery process requires that you monitor your symptoms. This can help you catch any issues early on. Monitor your surgical area and the surgical sites closely for any changes, such as swelling or fluid shifting. If you notice a soft, balloon-like bulge, it may be the beginning stages of a seroma. Seromas are easier to treat when detected early, so contact your surgeon right away.
Choose Your Surgeon Carefully
Surgical technique matters when it comes to plastic surgery. Precise incisions and closures are necessary to reduce the risk of seromas. For this reason and many more, it is essential that you undergo your procedure with a skilled and experienced surgeon. Your choice of surgeon will affect both your results and your overall health after surgery. Recovering from surgery is taxing enough without additional, avoidable complications. Be sure to ask as many questions as possible during the consultation to ensure you choose the right surgeon.
Attend Your Post-Op Visit
You will have a post-operative visit, and it is essential that you attend. Attending your appointment is necessary to ensure your recovery process is going as planned. Your surgeon can assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments. Attending this appointment will also give you peace of mind that your results are progressing as expected.
Midface Lift Surgery and Seromas
A midface lift, also referred to as a cheek lift, targets the midface area to address sagging cheeks, smile lines, and hollow under-eyes. The procedure has an extremely low complication rate, so the likelihood of experiencing a seroma after a midface lift is minimal. This is especially true if a skilled and experienced oculofacial plastic surgeon performs the surgery.
If you notice signs of a seroma after a midface lift, contact your surgeon immediately. The earlier you address the issue, the better your outcome will be. There are a few common signs of a seroma after a midface lift. These include soft swelling near the cheeks and lower eyelids. Asymmetry can also indicate seroma development. Pain and discomfort that accompany these symptoms are signs that you should contact your surgeon. There are several ways to treat the condition that will not impact your midface lift results. In most cases, the seroma will resolve on its own. However, over-the-counter medications can reduce the pain and swelling as you heal.
Oculofacial Plastic Surgery
If you are interested in cosmetic surgery and want to get treatment from a doctor you know you can trust, contact the team at Sarah Avila MD Oculofacial Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation!
