Removing drainage hoses after Tummy Tuck painful?

About the Tummy Tuck, how are the drainage hoses removed? Is it extremely painful?

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7 answers to “Removing drainage hoses after Tummy...”

A: Is drain removal painful?

Armando Soto, MD

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... more

A: It depends how you prepare your patients mentally

George Marosan, MD

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... more

A: Drain removal after tummy tuck is very easy.

George J. Beraka, MD

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.

A: More worry than it's worth

Robert Frank, MD

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...  more

A: Drain removal

Robin T.W. Yuan, MD

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... more

A: It depends on the drain and who is removing it

Richard P. Rand, MD

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... more

A: drains

Edmond A. Zingaro, MD

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... more

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