Removing Drainage Hoses After Tummy Tuck Painful?

Hi there- The three variables to consider are the technique of the person removing the drain, the anxiety level and pain threshold of the patient (you), and the qualities of the drains (they are not all created equal). It is important to be calm and at peace when the procedure is to be performed, as there is no question that anxious, stressed patients experience more pain with any procedure than calm, peaceful patients do. That's your part... The person performing the procedure can also do a lot more

The tubes usually slip out easily unless they are left in for a long time during which time tissue can grow into the holes. I usually removed the drains within 2-7 days depending on the surgery and amount of drainage. It takes a few seconds. If using suction drains, I take the drain off the suction bulb and pull gently to dislodge it. Once I feel the tube move easily, I put it back on very minimal suction so that it suctions any small collections as I remove it. Patients are usually more... more

I can't say that drain removal is totally painless. Every person's pain treshhold is different as well. It is important to take the drain off suction first and also make sure you cut the suture holding the drain in place before pulling the drain. I tell my patients that they might feel a burning sensation as it slips out and this can last about 30 sec. A gentle pressure over the exit site helps alleviate the discomfort. On the other hand, many have no pain at all, but the apprehension and... more

Hi! Carrying the drains around for a few days can be uncomfortable. In New York City, we leave drains in for a week in tummy tuck patients. But removing the drains takes a few seconds, and you only feel a quick twinge.

Most of my patients come in worried about the drains coming out. I would say 99% say "Thats it?" when I tell them we're done. Don't worry... 

The drain I use (only one) is a very thin round drain which does not get wider on the inside of the patient. It slides out easily like a piece of spaghetti. Other drains are a bit more uncomfortable to remove but if done gently and with some empathy, all goes fine. I just found over the years that this single drain actually works better than the 2 wider ones I used to use and is so much easier to remove.

The drains are soft flat or round rubber cannulae under the tummy skin/fat, exiting through either very small opening made or directly through the ends of the long incision. The process or removing them is uncomfortable but generally not extremelly painful, especially if they are removed slowly and with care.