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My dog has a fluid sac under skin on hip after surgery. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 4 years and 3 months old | 65 lbs

My dog recently had surgery on her left hip (tuesday) and she's developed a huge fluid sac on her right hip just below her skin. Not under the muscle. What can I do until I can get to the vet Monday

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 30th, 2017

Poor Atari! She may have developed a seroma, which an accumulation of fluid in the "dead space" under the skin. She should be resting anyway while healing, so I would just keep her as quiet as possible until Monday, and monitor the swelling. If it gets significantly bigger over the next day, then it would be advisable to find an ER vet or a vet on call to see her sooner than Monday. I hope this helps!

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