Does the recovery time for a drainless tummy tuck differ from a drain tummy tuck?

The tummy tuck surgery with or without drains is basically the same. The only difference is the addition of some additional sutures (progressive tension sutures) that helps to "quilt" the skin back down to the abdomen fascia. Because of this, the swelling and discomfort during recovery should be the same. It is quite interesting that patients that do not have drains do report that the surgery recovery seems easier and even less painful. I think that there is a psychological benefit to not having drains that translates into a decreased perception of pain and discomfort. But the amount of time needed to get back to heavy core exercise and the time needed to see the end results of surgery is unchanged. 

Although it is still quite acceptable to have drains following a tummy tuck, some plastic surgeons are now performing tummy tucks without drains.  Generally speaking, drains are placed to help remove any build up of fluid under the skin and to allow healing progress.  One can avoid placing drains by placing multiple dissolvable sutures/stitches internally to reattach the fatty tissues to the underlying muscle.  This avoids the build up of fluid, thus drains are not necessary.  My patients find it very nice not to have any annoying tubes or drains hanging from them during their recovery.  Drains can be a bit cumbersome and can sometimes cause some pain or discomfort.