Could my tummy tuck drain be clogged?

Question

My drain seems to be clogged 4 days after my surgery. I can see the clog it's right wear the drains exits my body behind the stiches, I barley get 25cc per day I called my PS and was seen the same day by an RN all she did was pull on the tub and said to wait for my pre op which was the next day. My PS said it was fine because it was draining a bit and that it was to soon to pull it out. I am also on antibiotics. Is this normal and am I still at risk of not draining properly/ infection?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Occasionally small clots can develop within the tubing of a tummy tuck drain but as long as the area of insertion does not look infected, there is no significant swelling taking place, and the drain is still wicking fluid into the bulb, it is okay to maintain the drain.  Hope this helps

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Without an in person exam, it is impossible to say whether your drain is clogged or not. Schedule an appointment to see your surgeon so that he or she can assess the situation in person. Best, Dr. Nazarian

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, there is no way to know whether your drain is clogged or working normally based on a description.  Your plastic surgeon will be the best source of advice regarding drain care, and when it should be removed.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Drains commonly decrease in drainage post-operatively. If you note any swelling you should contact your PS. My recommendation is to follow your PS's directions and keep all follow up appointments. Make sure he is aware of any concerns you may have so he can address them to alieve your worries. Best Wishes to you!#drains  #clogged  #postopdrainage

Kamran Azad, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. It is difficult to tell without examining you but as long as the other drain/s  are working properly and you are not having or noticing any internal fluid collection or significant swolleing it should be okay. It is not uncommon for a drain to stop draining few days after surgery. The best thing to do at this point would be to follow up with your plastic surgeon and congratulations on your surgery

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Without an exam to see if you are collecting fluid internally (seroma formation) this is impossible to tell. Your plastic surgeon is the best judge of what is needed.#seroma#drains

Maan Kattash, MD, FRCS, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

If one drain is blocked, the other one will likely take over since both drain the same cavity. It is not uncommon for a drain to stop draining few days after surgery. I recommend that you follow the instructions of your surgeons and adhere to your follow up appointments

Could my tummy tuck drain be clogged?

Answers (7)

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