How Long is Too Long to Have a Drain?

I had my first drain removed around the 2 week mark. Tomorrow will be 4 weeks and I still have the other drain. I am still producing different amounts each day. Some days are below 30 CC's while others are more than 40 CC's. It is so annoying and the drain site is bothering me more now. My doctor is awesome and he has taken extremely good care of me. He says that sometimes this happens and when it does he doesn't like to remove them to early.

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by Juju2253 in Rutherfordton, NC

Doctor Answers (5)
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Drain removal

There is no set time to remove a drain. However, the longer they stay in the more likely they can become infected. Taking it out with a significant amount of drainage may result in a seroma. Follow closely with your surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Drain Removal

Thank you for your question. Drains left in after a tummy tuck are removed according to how much drainage is coming out. This generally lasts 7-10 days. It may take longer in larger cases. It sounds like your surgeon is on top of the situation and I would continue to follow up with him. Sometimes you reach a point where you just need to remove it and see if a seroma develops. This would then require serial aspirations until it's resoved... more

Drain issue

The length of time the drain is in place will vary from patient to patient. If the drain is removed too early the fluid will accumulate and you will need to have it removed on a regular basis. It sounds as though your plastic surgeon is keep a close eye on you and you should continue close follow up. Thank you for your question and good luck.

Ralph R. Garramone, MD

7 reviews

Fort Myers Plastic Surgeon

Drain in Too Long?

Thank you for the question. It sounds like your plastic surgeon is following you closely. I would suggest that you continue to follow his advice regarding drain removal. Unless there is an infection associated with the drain (unusual), there will be minimal downside to keeping the drain in place until its output is lower. Best wishes.

Tummy tuck drains usually out earlier

Drains after a standard Tummy tuck are rarely in for four weeks. However in some circumstances (like massive weight loss, or significant simultaneous liposuction), they can drag on for even a few weeks extra. If the drainage doesn't diminish, the doctor may recommend a trial of just biting the bullet and removing the drain. If a seroma (fluid collection occurs, he can drain it with a small needle in the office. If it still persists, you may be returning to the OR to close the... more