“Do I need to be drained?” Not every lump or swelling after a tummy tuck is a fluid collection.
One of the most common questions I get is:
“Do I have a seroma?”
The truth is, there are two very different things that can cause fullness after surgery:
💧 Fluid (seroma):
• Often feels like a pocket of water.
• May shift or “slosh” when you move.
• Sometimes can be drained with a needle if it’s significant.
👐 Swelling, scar tissue, or fibrosis:
• Usually feels firm or rubbery.
• Cannot be drained because there’s no fluid inside.
• Often improves with lymphatic massage, compression, time, and proper postoperative care.
Knowing the difference is important because the treatments are completely different.
⚠️ If you’re unsure what you’re feeling after surgery, don’t guess. Have your surgeon examine you before trying any treatment.
👇 Have you ever wondered whether your swelling was fluid or scar tissue? Let me know in the comments.
#MommyMakeover #Seroma #Recovery #PostOpCare #TummyTuc...