15 Days and Large Increase in Fluid Output of Tummy Tuck Drains?

         Do not be discouraged at this early stage, as some people require four weeks or so of drains before they can be safely removed.  A fluid collection could have shifted into the drainage area to temporarily increase output.  Not to worry.

After a tummy tuck, drains are routinely placed to help remove the healing fluid that your body produces in the first few days post-op.  Depending upon the output from the drains, they are typically removed at 7-10 days.  Occasionally, the body will continue to produce a lot of this fluid and the drains may have to stay in longer (an additional week or more).  Hopefully your drain output will drop over the next week and nothing more will need to be done.  If it does not, your surgeon may consider injecting your tummy with a small amount of medicine such as doxycycline to help sclerose (scar down) the pocket in your tummy that is producing this fluid.  Good luck.

Congratulations on having undergone the tummy tuck procedure.

Although I cannot provide you with precise advice online, you should be aware that in and of itself, drain out put fluctuation is not necessarily a major concern. In other words, it is not unusual for drains to have increased output depending on patient's movement, activity, change in position…

 However, a change in color or consistency of drain output may be a significant concern ( depending on the patient's overall condition).

 Of course, your plastic surgeon will be your best resource to advise and/or reassure you have to direct physical examination.

 Best wishes.