Texas Breast Center’s Article on Seroma & Fluid Collection After Breast Cancer

Valerie Gorman, MD, FACS has just released an article on seromas, a potential side effect of breast cancer surgery. Dr. Gorman published the article to inform patients about the possible risks and lack thereof that accompany seroma.

Seroma, a collection of fluid where removed tissues once were, is a common side effect and can be harmless. In most cases, a seroma will take care of itself, as the body will reabsorb the fluids.

Seroma Breast Cancer Surgery Texas Side Effects

Doctor Gorman discusses treatment for the more stubborn seromas, which can require:

insert[ing] a needle into the seroma and then drain[ing] the excess fluid out of it. In some cases, this procedure may need to be repeated on more than two or three occasions. If the fluid continues to return even after numerous drainings, then some doctors may decide that a minor operation to remove the seroma entirely might be the best option, or to place a drain temporarily.

Some potential risk factors for seromas are age, breast size, previous biopsy surgery, use of certain medications, and history of seromas, though Dr. Gorman states that none of these factors ensure a seroma.

Dr. Valerie J. Gorman is a breast surgeon who specializes in surgical oncology and other surgical diseases–specifically of the breast–and is certified by the American Board of Surgery. She serves at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Waxahachie as Chief of Surgery and Medical Director of Surgical Services.