Overview

After a surgery, fluid can collect under the skin near the cut the doctor made (incision). This soft, puffy area is called a seroma. It can be tender to touch. The incision may even have opened up.

Some seromas get better on their own. But when there is a lot of fluid under the skin, a seroma is drained to help the area heal.

If your incision has opened up, it may either be packed with gauze or left open to heal. To prevent infection, make sure to keep the area clean and to take all medicines as prescribed.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Follow your doctor's instructions for seroma care. If you have a drain tube, your doctor will tell you how to take care of it.
• Look at the incision every day. Keep the area clean and dry.
• Do not bathe unless you can keep the incision dry. Start with sponge baths. Ask your doctor when it is safe to shower.
• Do not scrub or rub the incision. And don't wear clothing that rubs it.
• Leave any tape strips (such as Steri-Strips) on your incision. They will fall off on their own, or your doctor may tell you when to take them off.
• Do not put lotion or powder on incisions.
• Keep your incision out of direct sunlight.

• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask the doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• Your doctor may give you specific instructions on when you can do your normal activities again, such as driving and going back to work.