Consecutive formation of extensive late seromas with sudden onset: a breast augmentation patient with a puzzling clinical presentation

Silicone gel-filled breast implants are the backbone of augmentation mammoplasty. Although a safe and straightforward procedure, augmentation mammoplasty is not exempted from complications. Seroma formation—as a well-known complication—generally occurs at early postoperative period. Although it generally undergoes spontaneous resorption within four to six postoperative weeks, its persistence can cause increased pain, wound dehiscence and infection, which might necessitate subsequent removal of the implant. The term “late seroma” describes seroma after 4 months postoperatively. Late seromas are rare and tend to occur unilaterally. Although late seromas generally have an insidious onset, clinical presentation may vary regarding each individual patient. We present a case report of extensive late seroma formations, with sudden onset, on both sides in a consecutive manner. Our review of the literature suggests that this is the only report of consecutive late seroma formation on both sides of a silicone gel breast augmentation patient.

Level of Evidence: Level V, diagnostic study.