How Much Drainage Is Normal After A Tummy Tuck?
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If you recently have had or plan to have a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, you are likely aware of the lengthy recovery period. While daily activities are usually easy to incorporate as you return to your routine, heavy lifting and intensive exercise may require several additional weeks of recovery. As with any surgery, healing takes time. During a
tummy tuck, drainage tubes may be placed and will likely remain for a few days. The care of these tubes, in addition to recovery, may seem daunting, but by arming yourself with helpful information, you can rest easy. As long as you know what to expect during the days and weeks post-operation, you can be confident that your body is on the right track.
Tummy Tucks And Drains
Drainage tubes placed during a tummy tuck enable drainage of the naturally produced fluid occurring after surgery. If tubes are absent, fluid could remain in the abdomen and cause swelling or infection. The tubes are made from thin silicone and attached to small bulbs. The fluid from the surgery site will drain into these bulbs. You will receive instructions detailing how to keep the area around the drainage tubes clean while the drains are in place and how to care for and empty the drainage bulbs.
How Much Drainage To Expect
Every patient will experience different volumes of drainage after their surgery. A daily amount of as much as 300cc (equal to 300ml) is not uncommon immediately after the procedure. The amount of discharge will decrease slowly. Most doctors will remove the drains when 30cc (30 ml) or less is collected in the bulbs daily over a few consecutive days. The time it takes for the volume of liquid drained to decrease will be the factor that determines when drain removal takes place. Typically, a patient can have the tubes removed within a week, but depending on the circumstances, they could remain in place 5-14 days after surgery. If you carefully adhere to post-op instructions provided by your surgeon, you will decrease the chances of complications following your tummy tuck.
How Much Is Too Much?
Your surgeon can give you an idea of how much tummy tuck drainage to expect. If you have excess fluid draining a few days after surgery or the discharge volume is not decreasing or has increased, contact your surgeon immediately for further instructions. While every individual’s recovery will vary, if you are experiencing excessive fluid draining through the tubes, your surgeon can assess what next steps may be necessary in your post-surgery care.
Conclusion
At Sarasota Surgical Arts, you can be confident that you are getting the best care.
Dr. Alberico Sessa, M.D., is one of Florida’s most highly skilled cosmetic surgeons. He has received many awards, including the
Top Cosmetic Surgeon in Florida. Dr. Sessa’s reputation for excellent patient care and satisfaction makes him an ideal choice to help you achieve the best possible results for your cosmetic needs.
