Seroma pain

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1

I’ve got a seroma on my armpit scar - it developed because the drain stopped working a week after surgery. I’m now 2 weeks post op.
It’s been drained twice this week, the clinic isn’t open until Monday and my scar is so swollen and painful. The Bc nurse told us not to go to a&e as they won’t deal with a seroma.

I’m at my wits end as it’s causing so much anxiety and now that it’ll be even bigger by Monday.

I’m not showing signs of infection but there is a large lump forming on my boob after TM as well.

Tried massage and hot towels - nothing is shifting it.

Has anyone got any advice please? Thanks x

2

Hi melkerr

Thank you for posting.

A seroma is a collection of fluid which may occur after breast surgery. Over time the fluid is reabsorbed. However, as you describe they can cause pain and discomfort, and this can cause a lot of anxiety.

Although this is causing you lots of pain, it’s good to read that you are not showing signs of infection and hopefully you have managed to speak to your breast care nurse this morning. They can assess the seroma, advise on pain relief and if necessary, arrange for the seroma to be drained again.

Hot towels are not usually suggested for the management of seromas so you can ask the breast care nurse about using these and whether to use massage should the seroma build up again.

We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.

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Best wishes

Val

Breast Care Nurse

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