Seroma as a late complication after breast augmentation

Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2011 Jun;35(3):303-14. doi: 10.1007/s00266-010-9607-6. Epub 2010 Oct 17.

Abstract

This report with late seromas occurring in the periprosthetic cavity. This complication is a rare development after breast augmentation. From 1996 to 2009, the authors performed 568 initial breast augmentation procedures. During this period, they observed late seromas in six cases. In five of the six cases, the initial operations were performed by the authors (0.88% of all breast augmentation operations performed at the authors' center during the respective period). In one case, the operation had been performed in another clinic. Late seromas occurred at various intervals 2 to 10 years after the initial breast augmentation. In five of the six reported cases, revision surgery was required. In one case, conservative treatment was applied. An implant rupture was observed in only one case. In the remaining five cases, the implants were intact. In the authors' opinion, seromas may occur when any sliding surfaces are present and as a result of micromotion of implants in cavities. The inner surface of a capsule with a synovial metaplasia becomes a target for chronic infections.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Breast Implants / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mammaplasty / adverse effects*
  • Seroma / etiology*
  • Seroma / surgery
  • Time Factors