I had a tummy tuck on 11/7 and my drains were removed 11/22/ however one of the holes are leaking fluids?

Question

The nurse stated I will be leaking fluids the remainder of the day but it has been 3 days and one hole is still leaking. Is this normal?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and congratulations on your tummy tuck.  The drain holes may take several days to fully heal in to where there is no further drainage.  I would keep the area clean and covered with a gauze and you should see a steady drop daily. Hope this helps.

Jan Hochtritt, BSc, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for your question. It is not unusual for the holes to continue draining after the tube was removed. It is important to keep it clean and follow the instructions of your doctor. It will eventually close. Have a wonderful rest of the day greetings from the beautiful island of Jamaica

Allen Gabriel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Is not unusual for some drainage to come out after your drains are removed.  I would still contact your plastic surgeon's office and inform them on what's going on.  best of luck

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Yes, the drainage from your drain sites can continue for a while after they are removed. I would say that, as long as you don't seem to have an infection (redness, pain, fever/chills, thick drainage) then getting this fluid out of your body is better than having it stay in. I would make sure your surgeon keeps a close eye on this with you. Best wishes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The small openings created by the drains generally close up on their own after a few days.  If you are noticing fluid still leaking after three days it is best to contact your surgeon's office for instruction.  Be prepared to discuss the amount and characteristics of the drainage.  Until the opening has healed keep it clean and covered.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well. 
Each surgeon has a protocol, it is important that you always follow his / her instructions,  he / she knows the best for you and your personal case, fluids and inflammation is completely normal at this phase, relax and trust your surgeon. 
I recommend you discuss any concern with your board certified plastic surgeon. 
Good luck :)

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It can take a few days after drain removal for the holes to stop draining. If the drainage is substantial then you should have it checked out by your surgeon.

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is not unusual for the drain sites to have drainage for a few days.  Typically they do close after 2-3 days, but it sounds like you may still have some fluid under the skin flap.  As long as there are no signs of infection (fever, redness, pus) then I would recommend you treat conservatively for the time being.  Best to keep your surgeon informed on your progress.  Good luck.

Leonard Hochstein, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

When a drain is removed, it is very common for the incisions to leak fluids.  The incision site opening may take several days to close and may leak throughout that time.However, I would call your PS to ensure the leaking is normal fluid and not something else because each and every patient heals differently.

I had a tummy tuck on 11/7 and my drains were removed 11/22/ however one of the holes are leaking fluids?

Answers (9)

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