Prevention and Management of Postoperative Seroma in Patients with Breast Cancer: A Narrative Review

Postoperative seroma remains a frequent complication following breast cancer surgery in both sexes. Despite continuous surgical advancements, its incidence widely ranges from 3% to 85%, significantly affecting the postoperative course, extending hospitalization duration, and diminishing patients' quality of life.

The primary objective of this narrative review is to evaluate current preventive and therapeutic approaches for postoperative seromas, analyzing the efficacy of surgical techniques, dead space closure, and drainage optimization protocols.

This article provides a comprehensive review of current concepts regarding the complex pathogenesis, multifactorial risk structure, and management approaches for postoperative seromas. The study systematically examines preventive possibilities, evaluating the efficacy of modern surgical instruments, dead space closure techniques, and drainage optimization protocols.

Seroma formation results from a combination of localized inflammatory responses and mechanical lymphatic trauma. Preventive measures such as fibrin sealants, early drain removal, and flap fixation demonstrate varying efficacy. Standard management primarily involves repeated aspiration punctures and the active prevention of secondary infections.

No single method is universally effective; therefore, seroma prevention must be comprehensive and individualized, factoring in the specific surgical strategy, tissue healing characteristics, and the patient's somatic status.