Seroma Advice
A seroma is a collection of fluid. On occasion, your body can struggle to re-absorb the fluid, causing it to gather near your scar line, either on your breast, in your armpit or behind your back. This is quite common and is nothing to worry about. You will see the seroma as a swelling, which can vary in firmness, depending on how much fluid is collected.
Initially it may feel like a small hot water bottle and you might experience the feeling of the fluid ‘sloshing’ about a little. As more collects, it becomes tighter and you may feel discomfort spreading behind your shoulder blade.
If you feel a build-up of fluid, don not panic! Continue to exercise and take regular painkillers. If you feel that the swelling is impeding your movements or it is becoming too painful despite taking painkillers, then phone the breast ward for advice.
If it is thought necessary to do so, we will draw off some fluid for you suing a syringe and needle (aspirate). This is however best avoided as much as possible due to the risk of introducing infection. It is also better to encourage your body to deal with the fluid itself. Seromas can re-fill when drained.
It is important to remember that a seroma is a perfectly common occurrence and is easily and painlessly dealt with.
If you have any doubts or worries, please contact your hospital team
Disclaimer: On this website you will find advice to help you manage some of the more common but milder symptoms and side effects of breast cancer surgery. Please ONLY use this advice if you are currently participating in the ePainQ research project, otherwise you must follow the advice given to you by your medical team.
Clicking on the links in the left hand menu will take you to advice on looking after yourself during treatment. If after following the advice you don’t feel your symptoms are being successfully managed or relieved, or if you become more unwell, you should contact your hospital medical team immediately.