How do I know if my drain is clogged? It's leaking a little near the port opening. I'm only collecting 20ml

Question

I had a TT revision due to wound opening and chronic seroma repair. Because I had a seroma for weeks before, my PS put in another drain after the revision. I'm only collecting 15-20ml in the drain. I am either swollen or the drain is clogged and I have a seroma. The bulb is compressed and fluid light red. He also told me not to wear compression this time for some reason. 1. Should I be wearing compression? 2. Am I swollen or is this drain partially clogged? (No water bed)

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Generally, if the drain is collecting fluid, it is not clogged. However, this is the kind of thing that would need to be assessed in person. In terms of the compression garment, I would typically have my patients wear one, but your surgeon knows your case best. Ask him or her why you aren't? I am sure that there is a reason and it would be best to follow his or her advice. Hope this helps -- Dr. Nazarian

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Truly on a physical exam Csn answer your questions.  In my opinion a compression garment would be helpful. Please continue close follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.Try stripping the drain and also push on your abdomen to see of more fluid comes outI have all patients wear compression The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

Christian A. Prada, MD, FACS · Answer

i would try stripping the drains first to see if a clot is blocking the drain. In some cases you cannot tell even after stripping. Most PS's use two drains for this reason. If one fails the other takes its place. If you notice abnormal swelling on the clogged side see you PS. They may need to evacuate a hematoma or drain a seroma.

Ronald Schuster, MD · Answer

This kind of question should only be answered by your surgeon. Contact your surgeon by phone or email.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, Jjakd.  If your drain bulb is in suction (collapsed) and draining some fluid, your drain is most likely not clogged. It is not unusual to have some drainage around the drain site.  Pleased contact your plastic surgeon to be evaluated in-person. I would have my patients wear compression garment/binder after surgery unless I worry about tissue perfusion.  Best to follow your plastic surgeon's post-op instruction.Best wishes.

Daniel P. Markmann, MD · Answer

Leaking around the drain is usually a good indication that it is either clogged or partially clogged.  The best thing to do is to go see your surgeon.

How do I know if my drain is clogged? It's leaking a little near the port opening. I'm only collecting 20ml

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