Seroma a week after lumpectomy

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I had a lumpectomy with removal of two sentinel nodes two weeks ago. The first week was great with no pain. A week later what was left of my breast began to swell and become painful. I can no longer were a bra to support it. I saw the breast nurse three days ago who confirmed it is a Seroma. I was put on antibiotics in case it was infected as it was hot to touch. 
I am reaching out to hear from someone with a similar diagnosis. Nurse did mention draining the fluid but they prefer to let it disperse on its own. I would prefer not to have any more needles stuck in me. The whole lead up to the operation involved painful local injections, biopsies, insertion of radioactive markers and a needle through my nipple to insert coloured dye. I’ve had enough poking and prodding to be honest.

Also does anyone know if dissolvable stitches inside the wound could come apart? I think I have overdone it a bit and by lifting washing.

  • Hi Nickyjane, I had the same issue around a week after surgery.  I was told by my BCN that the surgeon was likely to drain the Seroma as I was due to see him the following day.  After examination, he decided it was best to let it dissipate on its own.  The pain and redness abated after a few days and in the past 6 weeks, it has gradually reduced…..although I still look a bit deformed and it’s far from gone, I kind of figure as I’ll never be a page 3 girl, in the grand scheme of things, it’s not too bad!  I also overdid it in the gym as soon as I was pain free.  It was clear that healing was still going on internally, so rested for a couple of weeks.  Now back in the gym, but being far more careful. Good luck!

  • Thanks so much for your reply. It’s good to hear a similar story to mine. Blush