Is it common to have a seroma following umbilical hernia surgery?

Early on: A seroma is a fluid collection that forms in body spaces, such as where a hernia bulge was present before surgery; the larger the hernia, the higher the probability of a seroma forming. This is typically reabsorbed within weeks after surgery, although underlying mesh may slow this down. Rarely, it persists for months and may require aspiration.

No: But it is usually self limited and not a reason for concern.

Variable : Seromas are probably very common, but also extremely variable in terms of size. A seroma is a collection of fluid under the skin. Almost seromas are probably very small and unnoticeable, some may look like the size of the lump that was there before the hernia is fixed. Almost all go away by six months but sometimes persist. If it persists and is causing problems, be sure to see your surgeon to check it out.