Breast Ultrasound Cyst/Seroma Aspiration

Based on the results of your breast ultrasound, a radiologist doctor has advised a breast ultrasound cyst/seroma aspiration. Ultrasound is used to guide the needle into the right place. A doctor withdraws fluid from the cyst/seroma with a needle.

Before the Cyst/Seroma Aspiration

• A Breast Center nurse reviews all your prescribed and over-the-counter medicines.

• Let us know of any allergies. This includes lidocaine and other medicine, metal, and tape.

• You may eat and drink as normal. There is no need to fast.

• Wear a two-piece outfit. You need to undress from the waist up.

• Do not wear talcum powder or deodorant.

During the Cyst/Seroma Aspiration

You need to lie on your back on the exam table. Gel is placed on your breast. The site of concern is found using ultrasound. A picture of this site is shown on a computer.

Your breast is cleaned with an antiseptic. It may feel cool on your skin.

The doctor injects lidocaine into your breast. This is a numbing medicine. You will feel a sting with the injection. You may feel pressure. You should not feel any pain after this is given. Let staff know if you do feel pain.

The doctor uses ultrasound to guide the needle to the right place. A small needle with a syringe attached is placed into the cyst/seroma. Fluid is drawn into the syringe.

This fluid is checked by the doctor. If there is a concern, the fluid is sent to the lab. It is looked at under a microscope. If fluid is sent to the lab, results will be ready in 3-4 working days. Your doctor will give you the results.

After the Cyst/Seroma Aspiration

Pressure is applied to stop any bleeding. The area is covered with a bandage.

You may resume normal activity.

You may have mild bruising. This should go away in 5-7 days.

Call your doctor or a Breast Center nurse if you notice:

• Excess swelling or bleeding.

• Drainage.

• Redness or warmth at the site.

Phone Numbers

If you have questions or concerns about your care, please call the following numbers. 

Normal working hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

UW Health Breast Center at the University Hospital: 608-266-6400. 

After hours and weekends, call

(608) 262-2122. This will give you the paging operator. Ask to speak to the radiologist on call. Give the operator your name and phone number with the area code. The doctor will call you back.

UW Health Breast Center at 1 S Park Street:

608-287-2050

After hours and weekend, call 

608-417-6000. Ask to speak with the radiologist on call at Meriter/Unity Point Hospital.

For medical emergencies, call 911.

Additional Instructions

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If you are a patient receiving care at UnityPoint – Meriter, Swedish American or a health system outside of UW Health, please use the phone numbers provided in your discharge instructions for any questions or concerns.