Struggling with Persistent Seroma After Surgery
Hello, I’m a 35-year-old woman dealing with significant weight challenges and a complex medical background, as I manage multiple medications daily. I recently learned that I have nodules in my thyroid. A partial thyroidectomy was performed, where they removed the right side containing the nodules, which were later diagnosed as papillary carcinoma. At this point, it remains unclear if cancer has spread, as no further tests have been conducted. My surgery took place on May 20th, and this morning, I underwent drainage for a seroma for the fifth time, leaving my doctor perplexed about the situation. Currently, I'm on my eighth course of antibiotics. I was hospitalized for almost four days under suspicion of cellulitis, but now there’s speculation that I might be allergic to the stitches used during my surgery. This was something I voiced to my surgeon prior to the procedure, given my previous experiences where stitches have worked their way out, causing intense discomfort, even after the incisions had healed. Initially, I was reassured that such occurrences are rare, yet now it seems my fears may have been valid. Five weeks post-operation, and I feel utterly worn out both mentally and physically. Due to these complications, my second surgery to remove the remaining thyroid tissue has been postponed, and the plan is to refer me to Barrows in Arizona. However, when I called to schedule an appointment, I was met with disbelief regarding my request for a quick visit, as they’re booked until August. My current ENT is aware of my situation and is advocating for an expedited appointment. I am truly worn out at this point. Would anyone have suggestions on how to prevent this recurrence? Why is this persistent issue occurring? Might I genuinely be allergic to the stitches? Any advice would be incredibly appreciated, as I’m feeling quite disheartened about everything happening. Also, could someone confirm if the swelling I've been experiencing five weeks after surgery is considered normal? I have been documenting this journey with photos, capturing the progression from the outset of my issues up to now. Please let me know if the swelling looks standard for this recovery stage.
Answers (1)
6/23/2025, 5:50:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your struggles with postoperative complications and the emotional toll it has taken. Persistent seromas can be frustrating and challenging to manage. Here’s a breakdown of your situation, along with some actionable steps.
Summary of Key Points:
- Persistent Seroma: This is a collection of fluid that can occur after surgery and may happen due to various reasons, including surgical technique and the body's healing response.
- Possible Reactions to Sutures: Allergic reactions to sutures can occur, particularly if you have a history of complications with previous sutures.
- Swelling Post-Surgery: Some swelling can be normal after surgery, but persistent or worsening swelling can indicate a problem.
Explanation:
A seroma might develop after surgery when fluid accumulates in the space where tissue was removed. Factors contributing to persistent seromas can include infection, tissue healing irregularities, and, as you speculated, possibly an allergic reaction to sutures. The fact you have been on multiple antibiotics and experienced cellulitis raises concerns about an underlying issue that needs monitoring.
Swelling after surgery can be typical, particularly when the procedure involves significant tissue manipulation, but if it persists beyond the expected time frame, it might warrant further evaluation.
Next Steps:
-
Fluid Management: If you're draining the seroma regularly, continue to do so under your doctor’s guidance. Monitor any changes in color or consistency of the fluid, as this can provide insights into possible infection.
-
Document Symptoms: Keep detailed records of your symptoms, including how the swelling changes, any pain or discomfort, and your overall energy levels. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.
-
Take Care of Your Health: Focus on adequate hydration, proper nutrition, and managing stress to support your body’s recovery. Gentle movement may help prevent stiffness, but listen to your body and avoid overexertion.
-
Discuss Reactions with Your Surgeon: When you have your next appointment (ideally as soon as possible), convey your concerns about the sutures like you have before. Asking for alternatives (such as absorbable sutures) may help prevent future complications.
-
Seek Emotional Support: Engaging with support groups or talking to a counselor may be beneficial for managing stress and emotional exhaustion. It's normal to feel disheartened during such a challenging recovery process.
-
Follow Up on Upcoming Appointments: Stay proactive with scheduling an expedited visit to your referral center. If necessary, communicate openly with your current ENT regarding your urgency.
Remember that you’re not alone in this journey, and seeking help and expressing your concerns is essential. If you have any specific pictures or documentation of your swelling that you're considering sharing for assessment, prepare those for your upcoming medical consultation, as visual aids can sometimes help clarify your situation better.
Related Questions
Facing Ovarian Failure at 29: Seeking Guidance
A 29-year-old woman shares her health journey involving mental health and recent surgeries. She is currently prescribed 150mg Wellbutrin, 150mg Zoloft, and 10mg dexmethylphenidate for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and a Factor III condition. Occasionally, she uses marijuana and consumes alcohol. Her medical history includes significant events: in December 2021, she underwent surgery for ovarian torsion on her left ovary, which involved untwisting the ovary and removing large cysts exceeding 10cm. Fast forward to August 2023, she faced a laparotomy that resulted in the removal of her right ovary and fallopian tube, alongside an enormous ovarian mass measuring 18cm. Prior to the removal of her right ovary, her menstrual cycles were regular and symptomatically normal. However, since the surgery, she has experienced irregular periods, having recorded only 11 in the span from August 2023 to June 2025, with the last one occurring in mid-April 2025. Her cycle lengths have been erratic, fluctuating from 13 to 180 days. Additionally, she has begun to face symptoms such as hot flashes and weight gain around her abdomen. Her gynecologist conducted hormone testing but was perplexed by the results, as they could not correlate them to any phase of her virtually absent menstrual cycle. For reference, her FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) levels were as follows: July 2023 before the second surgery—9.3, September 2024—74.4, and October 2024—60.1. Her estradiol (a form of estrogen) levels were recorded at 176, 15, and 34 during the same intervals. Both her gynecologist and primary care physician expressed concern regarding the adverse effects associated with low estrogen levels and irregular menstruation. Consequently, her gynecologist referred her to an endocrinologist, indicating a lack of experience in initiating hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for patients under 30. During her recent visit with the endocrinologist, she was informed that she is effectively experiencing a peri-menopausal state. Unfortunately, no treatment options could be explored until she has not had a period for a full year. The endocrinologist merely suggested reaching out to her primary care physician should her menstrual cycle cease for twelve months, without establishing any further follow-up appointments. This left her feeling taken aback, especially considering the urgency expressed by her gynecologist and PCP; she is now questioning whether this is typical practice and whether seeking a second opinion would be advisable. She hopes to gain insight from others who might have faced similar circumstances.
Persistent Ear Issues: Seeking Insight
I’m a 24-year-old female not currently taking any medications or facing other health concerns. About two weeks ago, I began noticing some discomfort in my right ear. Initially, it was fairly mild, and I observed a decrease in my hearing ability. There wasn’t any sensation of blockage or other significant discomfort; it was a subtle issue that I could recognize but didn't interfere with my daily life. However, toward the end of that week, I woke up to find that the situation had significantly worsened. My hearing was considerably diminished, and I experienced episodes of mild disorientation. I went to urgent care for an evaluation. The doctor suggested that my hearing difficulties might be attributed to allergies. She prescribed antibiotic ear drops for some minor irritation she detected, advising them as a precaution. Overall, she concluded that I appeared to be in good health. The following day, I experienced intense vertigo, accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Thankfully, after that bout, my ear troubles seemed to resolve completely. I continued using the ear drops as instructed, just to be on the safe side. However, over the next few days, the symptoms returned intermittently before disappearing again. For the past week, up until now, I’ve felt perfectly normal. Yet, I’m beginning to sense some familiar changes in my ear again. I plan to consult with an ear, nose, and throat specialist, but I’m also reaching out here to see if anyone might have insights on what could be contributing to these recurring issues. I've included some photographs capturing the condition inside my ear from a small camera I purchased. I find the appearance concerning; it seems to look similar to how it appeared during my visit to urgent care (although I didn’t take a picture that day), where I was reassured it wasn’t anything serious. I appreciate any advice or thoughts you might have!
Recurring Pilonidal Cyst Issues
Greetings, everyone. I'm a 24-year-old male, standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 226 pounds, currently facing yet another episode with a Pilonidal Cyst. As I share this, I am contending with my third occurrence of this condition. My initial surgical procedure took place in 2018, and the most recent one was in January of this year. This time around, my recovery involved managing an open wound. I diligently followed all recommended recovery practices, including soaking in sitz baths and maintaining frequent hygiene routines. However, by early April, I began to observe fresh bleeding and suspected pus. At that moment, I didn't think too much of it, considering I was still in a period covered by my insurance and presumed my healing was on track. As days passed, the discomfort intensified, and I noticed a troubling mixture of blood and pus accompanied by a strong, unpleasant odor. This increased my concern about possibly facing another cyst recurrence or an infection of some kind. While drafting this post, I find myself at my office dealing with some challenging symptoms: I've been wearing a pad throughout the day due to ongoing bleeding, which emits a foul smell, and I've endured significant pain. Conversations with my colleagues revealed that many had experienced similar issues and advised me to head to the emergency room for immediate treatment. I'm left wondering if this situation constitutes an emergency, especially since I had surgery for this condition just a few months ago. I'm truly exhausted from this ongoing struggle and yearn to live my life without the constant anxiety surrounding this issue. My previous surgery had given me relief for nearly six years, and while I'm aware that Pilonidal Cysts often recur, I sincerely hope for at least a year of freedom from this distress.
Considering Antibiotics for Asymptomatic UTI with Enterococcus Faecalis
A 32-year-old female with a medical history of frequent premature ventricular contractions and generalized anxiety disorder has been taking 5 mg of Lexapro. During her recent annual check-up, she mentioned to her physician that she observed a strong odor in her urine, though she did not report any other symptoms. Following this, a urine culture revealed the presence of Enterococcus faecalis, leading to a prescription for Augmentin. Given that she is asymptomatic, she is questioning the need for antibiotic treatment. She has a strong aversion to medication and experiences heightened anxiety regarding it. Additionally, she is concerned about the increasing problem of bacterial resistance and wonders if the presence of this particular strain necessitates treatment. Thank you for considering her inquiry.
Seeking Help for Worsening Nerve Problems
Greetings! I apologize for the lengthy message, but there are numerous details I believe could be important, and I prefer to share more rather than less. **Summary**: I’m experiencing increasing numbness and tingling across my limbs, specifically affecting the left side of my left hand, the right side of my right hand, and my big toes. This deterioration is concerning, and I am looking for advice on potential underlying issues and how to ensure my concerns are warranted within the VA healthcare system. I am a 47-year-old transgender woman, and I began my transition four years ago, during which I've been prescribed Estradiol (2mg twice daily) and Progesterone (200mg daily). As a veteran, I am currently managing PTSD, nightmares, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Major Depressive Disorder with medications that include Wellbutrin (300mg daily), Escitalopram (20mg daily), and Prazosin (7mg daily). I occasionally take Trazodone (200mg) for sleep issues, though I tend to limit its use due to daytime grogginess. Navigating the VA healthcare system often feels like an uphill battle. In September 2023, while still serving, I began recovering from an illness when I suddenly experienced numbness in my left hand, particularly in the 4th and 5th fingers extending to the wrist. Initially, I didn’t think much of it, but the numbness evolved into tingling and discomfort, ultimately affecting my motor control and grip. My attempts to secure a referral to a neurology clinic resulted in a December appointment where, despite no diagnostic tests, I was prescribed gabapentin and referred for occupational therapy. Unfortunately, these interventions exacerbated my condition, preventing me from engaging in musical activities like playing guitar and piano, which were crucial for my mental health. The neurologist later prescribed two additional medications, but I found no relief. April 2024 brought some clarity when I finally underwent an EMG at a nearby Army base. The physician strongly advised that I required surgery immediately, cautioning that delaying could lead to irreversible nerve damage in my left hand. By this time, the tingling and discomfort had escalated to a point where sleep became elusive, and performing my teaching duties was increasingly difficult. The pain became remarkably distressing. My journey to consult an orthopedic surgeon took until May 2024, and I was met with refusal due to my medical board status. Despite presenting the EMG results as an emergency case, the surgeon dismissed my claims as my situation deteriorated throughout the summer. In July 2024, I found myself in a dark place, culminating in a suicide attempt. This was driven by numerous challenges, including my struggles with my left hand and the deterioration of my coping mechanisms for depression. Miraculously, I survived this episode, having reached out to my family at a critical moment. After years on the medical board, rushing was initiated in August 2024, which led me to a civilian orthopedic surgeon in September. I underwent an ulnar nerve transposition, all while facing discharge from the military after nearly three decades of service. The bureaucratic delays were frustrating, especially since my mental health had triggered a longstanding board status due to the use of antipsychotics in 2022. I have tried numerous antidepressants and alternative treatments without lasting success. Initially, the surgery yielded some improvement, but I soon noticed a regression in my left hand’s condition, which has since returned to its pre-surgery state, robbing me of my ability to play music or write comfortably. Additionally, I began experiencing numbness in my big toes and severe pain upon waking, along with tingling sensations. Although I raised these issues with the VA, my next appointment will not be until August. Recently, I’ve also encountered numbness and painful tingling in the right side of my right hand while using electronic devices. After securing a referral through the VA, I returned to the previous surgical center for testing, which confirmed my left arm and hand had myelin damage. They suspected that scar tissue from the earlier surgery may be compressing the ulnar nerve, prompting them to schedule another ulnar nerve remedy for July 1st. I expressed my concerns about my right arm and toes, but the surgeon seemed dismissive and vaguely mentioned contacting a neurologist—though I remain skeptical of how effective that will be within the VA framework. Thank you for taking the time to read my lengthy account. I welcome any insights or suggestions on potential underlying causes and ways to advocate effectively within the VA system. The ongoing struggle to use both hands for essential functions is deeply concerning, and the thought of losing capability in both is frightening.