How Long Do Drains Stay in After a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that essentially involves getting rid of excess fat and skin from the abdominal area while tightening the underlying muscle. Once the procedure has been performed, patients usually have drains placed in the surgical area to help remove excess fluids and optimize the healing process. This leads to a common question: How long should these drains stay in after a tummy tuck? This blog discusses the purpose of surgical drains, how long they typically remain in the surgical area, and what happens if they are removed too soon.
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Why Are Drains Used After a Tummy Tuck?
After a tummy tuck, surgical drains play an important role in the recovery process. A tummy tuck procedure creates a significant amount of space between the abdominal muscle and skin, which can get filled with fluids that the body naturally produces as you heal. The drains allow excess fluids to exit the body and consequently minimize the risk of swelling, developing a fluid collection called a seroma, infection, and other complications.
How Long Do Drains Stay In?
Every patient’s recovery time is different, so the time drains must stay in after a tummy tuck can vary. While the length of time depends on several factors, such as the extent of the procedure, most patients can expect to have drains for one to two weeks. In the case of a mini tummy tuck, the drains may be removed within five to seven days, while a standard tummy tuck may require the drain to stay in place for seven to ten days. If you choose to go for an extended tummy tuck, your surgeon may advise you to have the drains for up to 14 days.
It is important to note that every patient is unique, and therefore, surgeons have to decide when to remove drains on a case-to-case basis. For example, some patients produce more fluid during the healing process, meaning that the number of days you will need to have the drains in place may also depend on how much fluid your body will produce as the surgical site heals.
How to Care for Surgical Drains at Home
Once you have been discharged following a tummy tuck procedure, your surgeon will give you instructions on how to take care of the drains at home. For instance, you will be required to empty the drain reservoir two times every day or as directly by your surgeon. You will also be required to keep the insertion site clean and dry to minimize the risk of infection. Your surgeon might also require you to keep records of drain output in order to have more reliable data to determine when the drains should be removed.
How Are Tummy Tuck Drains Removed?
Drains are usually removed during a follow-up appointment with your surgeon. Before the drains are removed, your surgeon will check the amount of fluids the drains are collecting. If the amount of fluid coming from the surgical site is low, the surgeon will safely remove the drains. The process of removing the drains from the surgical area is quick and relatively painless. Some patients may experience a slight discomfort or a pulling sensation, but this discomfort should stop once the drains are removed. Patients are advised to monitor the area for issues such as redness and unusual swelling.
What Happens If Tummy Tuck Drains Are Removed Too Soon?
Drains are needed for optimal recovery following a tummy tuck. If they are removed too early, the patient could experience some undesired results. For instance, removing the drains too soon can lead to seroma formation. A seroma is a pocket of fluid that develops under the skin, leading to swelling, discomfort, and increased risk of infection.
Delayed healing is another problem a patient may have to deal with if drains are removed too soon following a tummy tuck. Build-up of fluid can put unnecessary pressure on the surgical area, which might slow down the body’s natural healing process. There is also an increased chance of excessive scarring if the tummy tuck drains are removed too early.
Are There Tummy Tuck Options Without Drains?
Some cosmetic surgeons use the progressive tension sutures technique, which enables them to offer abdominoplasty without the need for drains. This technique essentially involves using internal sutures to close the space between the skin and the underlying muscle, effectively eliminating the need for drains. While this approach may sound appealing, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. You can address any questions or concerns you may have with your surgeon during your consultation.
What Can I Expect After Tummy Tuck Drain Removal?
Once the drains have been removed, patients typically experience a sense of relief and improved mobility. You will still need to rest, tend to the surgical site, and follow other post-operative instructions. For instance, you will be required to continue avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks as directed by your surgeon. It is also important to note that swelling can persist even after the drains have been removed, meaning that you have to wait for several months before the final expected results of the procedure can become apparent.
Want to Learn More About Tummy Tuck Surgery in Ladera Ranch, CA?
Dr. Allen Doezie is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has been helping Orange County patients meet their aesthetic goals for 20 years. If you are looking to take the next step in your abdominoplasty journey, call Mission Plastic Surgery at (949) 481-9850 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your consultation today.