Mastectomy: Seroma / build up of fluid?

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Hi there
My mum had bilateral mastectomy and sentinel node biopsy on Friday (two days ago). She was discharged on the same day with no drain - she is now building up lots of fluid on both sides of her chest and along the wounds. She seems very uncomfortable with the swelling - just wondered what other people’s experiences of this have been? I know everyone is different but just wondering how long it will take to settle? Is there anything that can be done to reduce the swelling? Thanks x

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It sounds like your mum has got seromas (build up of fluid) - this is quite common - I had one after my mastectomy. My BCN offered to drain it but I read that eventually your body re-absorbs it and draining it can lead to infection. However, if you Mum is very uncomfortable then she should contact her BCN to discuss what can be done. My seroma gradually went down over a period of about 3 weeks.

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I also had seromas. I believe it is very common after mastectomy. Yes, they are uncomfortable and yes, the best thing is for your mum to see the BCN and see if she thinks they should be drained.

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Hi - I also had seromas after MX - I got it drained 3 times until it eventually absorbed back into my body. I would definitely recommend your mum goes to get it drained - it doesn’t hurt and the relief is immediate!
Jan. X

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I quite agree with Kiwijan your mother should go and get the BCN to drain it for her I had the same trouble I was sent home with a drain in and after a week it was removed then after I got the nurse to drain it for three weeks it does relieve the pressure and makes you feel more comfortable and after a while the body absorbes it so do get your mother to see the BCN as soon as poss
all the best Assisi

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hi, me too! Mx 10 days ago 2 drains in but then seroma as soon as removed. Bcn drained 200mls off last friday. She said not to have it drained again for 10 days, unless very uncomfortable and keeping me awake etc.
Breast is numb so painless, sterile needle used and is a tiny butterfly one so I think minimal infection risk. From what my nurse said it is more to encourage your body to reabsorb the fluid. Mine is building up again and I have found a cold flannel does help.

Hope you get your Mum sorted, bilateral is a lot to deal with 1 side is bad enough though I have had Anc too!