Drain increasing at times instead of steady decreasing. Normal or a concern?

Question

I'm 11 days PO and had my first drain removed after 5 days and my second is still going. It fluctuates between (25-34cc) in 24 hours. My surgeon seems very concerned that the number increases at times and has put me on bed rest, just getting up every couple of hours. It tends to increase when I get to and walk around. I am feeling great and want to get moving but worried about complications from the drainage increase. Is this a concern or normal for the number to increase with activity?

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, drain output can fluctuate with position and activity.  Uncommonly, increasing drain output can be a sign of a problem, but if you are feeling well and your PS is satisfied with your overall healing this is not likely to be the issue.  From your description it sounds like they are following you closely.

Vaishali B. Doolabh, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi ashleyv327. Increased drain output  is very common because of the increased blood flow/pressure that accompanies increased activity. Sometimes the lymphatic channels can seal themselves if the flow decreases from external compression (garment) or decreased activity. Drains above the belly button usually don't collect as much fluid as those positioned below the belly button (both usually exit Low but are positioned inside differently) Occasionally drains will not get pulled until 3 weeks or so, so hang in there. Be sure to discuss the risk of too little mobility in the postoperative period with your plastic surgeon in regards to blood clots, lung atelectasis, etc.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Hello Ashley, thanks for your question. It is very common to have fluctuations in drain out put and also it depending on posture and position. It is not unusual in post bariatric patients drainage is more than non post bariatric patients. your out put is between 25-34 cc which is not really high in post bariatric patient. Keep your garments on and continue to follow up with your surgeon. Good Luck

Anh Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

This is very normal in your stage of healing and drainage will fluctuate with increased acitivity.  Continue wearing your compression garment and hopefully your drain output will decrease to the point where it can be removed.

Jason S. Cooper, MD · Answer

The timing after surgery and the amount of drainage is normal.  Its common for fluid output  to increase with activity 1.5 weeks following abdominoplasty. This timeframe usually coincides with when you begin feeling better and wanting to do more activity. Its also very common for the remaining drain to increase its output after the first drain is removed because the remaining drain is now putting out the fluid that both drains put out.  Wear your compression garment or binder as much as possible. Limit strenuous activity, monitor your drain output closely and discuss with your surgeon.

Drain increasing at times instead of steady decreasing. Normal or a concern?

Answers (5)