Seroma

Hi TJA I've had fluid drained twice now from under armpit. Once after Wide local excision and removal of lymph nodes X 2 and again after my mastectomy. Both were a relief. I've a bit of build up along the scarline of my mastectomy which isn't painful, just odd. I'm keeping an eye on it. May call my breast nurse if it gets bigger. Hope you are doing ok. 

Hi

You don't say what you've had done so presumably lumectomy (aka Wide Local Excision - WLE) or mastectomy but, either way, a Seroma is the same, I'm sure.

I had WLE a few months ago and had a considerable amount of fluid drained off (350 mls +/_) when I went to clinic, 2 weeks after surgery.  I was aware that the boob was very tender to touch but I didn't have any expected 'burning' post op at all, which I was surprised about.  When the Consultant got syringe and needle out, to drain it, I felt my usual fear but could only grit my teeth and let her get on with it.  I have to admit, I didn't feel anything, apart from a slight 'prick' of the needle.  Why I have this fear, I really don't know because, of all the times of biopsies I've had, none have ever hurt, not even the local anaesthetic which usually would sting like **ll

I did need further surgery as invasive cells found so just 2 lymph nodes taken (SLNB) and had further collection of fluid (most likely small haematoma) which was also drained and I didn't feel a thing, to be honest, even though I was expecting some pain. 

I have to say, after the Seroma was drained, it felt so much more comfortable and no where near as tender.  It's not come back and all has healed well, I'm pleased to say.  Next thing - Radiotherapy, due to start in 10 days time (4 May) as had Planning this past week

Hope this helps.

I had a lumpectomy and nodes taken out. I had it drained last Tuesday and it has filled up. They want my body to absorb it as it will just come back. Now on stronger pain killers as it is very painful and sore. 

Thank you.  It has come back but got to see if can obsorb it . Not a good thing. 

Oh, sorry to hear this.  I'm sure your tissue will absorb it but it takes a bit of time, I suspect.  I'm sorry it's so painful for you at the moment.  The doctors looking after you will have to balance up the risks of putting needle in again, risking introducing infection, or whether to leave to absorb.  They've chosen to leave it to absorb which, unfortunately, doesn't relieve your pain as quickly.  I hope your painkillers are helping you to be more comfortable.

Hopefully, you'll soon be feeling more comfortable

{{{Hugs}}}

Thank you that means a lot x