After drains are removed, where does the fluid go?

Question

My drains were removed 5 days ago, as they were collecting very little fluid. However, the area near the site where the drain was is a little "puffy" and I'm wondering if it could be trapped fluid. What happens to residual fluid after the drains are out?

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi @Exquisite687809, thank you for your question. The area that you notice "puffy* may be inflammation, and perhaps some fluid that continues to accumulate, however, the body itself will drain it naturally over the days. Anyway, if you notice anything abnormal, the recommendation is to consult with your surgeon so that he can perform the necessary post-surgical control.  Best wishes!

Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.  American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Mathew A. Plant, MD, FRCSC · Answer

The small amount of fluid that can collect after drain removal is usually reabsorbed by your body. If it is more than the body can handle it will need to be drained. I'd suggest booking an appointment with your surgeon to be examined to make sure there is no clinically relevant seroma present. Best of luck!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Without photos or an in-office exam, it is difficult to provide an accurate response.  As long as the fluid is minimal, your body should absorb it.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear newmoonfull,in case of small amounts of fluid, body reabsorbs it with time. I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thomas J. Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I usually put drains in after big surgeries because your body produces a lot of fluid during the healing process.  Your body can reabsorb most of it, but in some cases it will produce more than it can reabsorb, which is where the drains come in.  I usually take the drains out when they put out less than 30 cc per day, since your body can reabsorb about that amount without fluid accumulating.  Since the drain comes out through the skin, it can irritate the area around it and make it red, swollen, and puffy.  Once the drain comes out the surrounding skin and tissue calm down fairly quickly.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Drains help remove excess fluid that is too voluminous for the body to absorb on its own.  Once they are removed there typically is a small amount of fluid that is present, but the body is able to absorb it over time.

Rachel Ford, MD · Answer

Hello!
Congratulations on your recent surgery. If the body is only producing a small amount of fluid, it will absorb it once the drains are removed. However, a larger collection of fluid can create issues. It's best to be evaluated by your surgeon.
Best of luck!
Dr Ford

After drains are removed, where does the fluid go?

Answers (7)

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