Gow long should drains be kept in after a Tummy Tuck to avoid seromas?
The drain concept is for a 24 hour time period with collections less than 25 cc’s in that time frame.
Each surgeon can vary to this general concept, though. (Darryl J. Blinski, MD, Miami Plastic Surgeon)
Drains can be removed when the drainage is low enough. Tummy tuck with liposuction of the sides and back and BBL will likely yield the best result. Find an expert with great reviews and before and after pictures.
Drain removal after tummy tuck
Drains are kept in place until your body has recovered and can absorb the fluid. Your surgeon will be following your output closely and decide when the drain or drains are ready to be pulled. Generally this can take 7-14 days, so please make sure that you follow their instructions closely. (Allen Gabriel, MD, FACS, Portland Plastic Surgeon)
Drains are typically used for 5 to 7 days following an abdominoplasty. From your photos you would appear to be a good candidate for the procedure. (Jeffrey Zwiren, MD, Atlanta Plastic Surgeon)
Drain tubes and Tummy Tuck
There are many different approaches. A drain tube is used to avoid a seroma, however there are other ways. 12 months ago I started using a “progressive tension suture” which sutures the skin back down to the tummy wall.
The concept is that it closes off the dead space (as well as reducing the tension on the skin closure) Since that time I stopped using drain tubes and have not had any seromas. For me, this approach has worked well and patients love not having drain tubes. (Richard Bloom, MBBS, FRACS, Melbourne Plastic Surgeon)
The drain should stay until it drain less than 50 cc in 24 hours. (Tania Medina de Garcia, MD, Atlanta Plastic Surgeon)
How long are tummy tuck drains left in
Depending on the type of tummy tuck, drains may not be used.If they are used, I remove mine within 1 – 5 days, depending on drainage. Some surgeons leave them in longer – even a month – often using the amount of drainage as a guide.
My experience is that in many cases, the drain itself is irritating and drainage stops when the drain is removed. Every surgeon does things differently – depending on what works best for her or him. (Elizabeth Morgan, MD, PhD, )