Hi - i have had chemotherapy, mastectomy and now half way through radiotherapy.
After mastectomy I developed a seroma which was drained before starting radiotherapy.
It has refilled during radiotherapy meaning I have had to stop and be rescanned and now
waiting for restart date. Would be pleased to hear from anyone who has had a similar experience
and is it likely to be an ongoing issue (seroma refilling)
Hi LizBella I'm one of the champions here in this group and I noticed your post hasn't had any replies yet, the site is busy and it's dropped down after few pages. My reply will bump it back to the top and hopefully someone with the right experience will be along soon.
My own radiotherapy was delayed due to a seroma, but I didn't have it drained and it reduced by itself thankfully, so I can imagine your situation would be even more frustrating. You might ask your medical team if there is anything you can do to reduce the risk of the seroma coming back or to help it reduce more quickly. I hope you get restarted again soon, best wishes
Hi Lizbella
I cannot advise whether the filling of the seroma will be an on going issue but in my experience that you will get to complete your radiotherapy but may have a longer route
I had a similar situation where I also had a seroma after a right breast lumpectomy which was drained 3 times. My surgeon was reluctant to drain more as he feared infection. I started radiotherapy (15 fractions). The difference is that I managed to get to day 4 but by the evening my seroma had burst and this paused my radiotherapy. I think that this is unusual. It all happened in February 2025.
I recommenced radiotherapy this week (4 months later ) and am again on day 4. My skin is looking good and the wound appears fine. I am looking forward to finishing radiotherapy on the 16 June 2025.
Take Care.
Thanks - I finally finished my radiotherapy but the seroma has refilled - think it may have to remain part of me!
All the best
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007