Sex w/ drain in after full tummy tuck?

In tummy tuck cases where I use a drain, I ask patients to avoid sexual activity while the drains are in.  I am concerned about potential for drain contamination leading to infection, or injury caused by pulling on the drain.  It is best to speak to your plastic surgeon directly about this issue and also about the anticipated timing of drain removal.

This largely depends on how extensive your procedure was. Always best to check with your plastic surgeon for the best advice. I generally allow most of my tt patients to have sex after six weeks with the woman in the top position so she is in control to make it less likely for an injury to occur.

Most people don't have a drain in after 4 weeks so you need to speak to your surgeon.  If you are having a problem with delayed or slow healing then sexual activity could worsen this.  This is something to definitely speak to your doc about since only he/she knows your situation/healing.  Good luck!

Thanks for your question. I think the big question I have is the reason why you still have a drain in. I personally don't use drains and would question the reasons for this. Sex at 4 weeks after a tummy tuck usually would be OK but you need to be a little careful and avoid anything that is painful / too vigorous. Why don't you ask your PS whether he/she can remove the drain and while you are in the office (possibly having the drain removed) ask your question regarding sex to your PS?

Your plastic surgeon will be your best resource when it comes to specific information/advice. He/she knows exactly what was done and how you are progressing. Concerns would include an increase in heart rate and the potential for bleeding. Muscle spasm may be painful. Obviously, significant pressure on the surgical site is not a good idea either. It is not uncommon for patients to report increased swelling that occurs after vigorous exercise (including sexual activity), even several months after tummy tuck surgery.I hope this helps.

It is worth asking why you still have a drain after four weeks from your tummy tuck surgery.  There may be a residual infection that is being treated by your Plastic Surgeon with the drain, and if this is the case sex would be premature at this time.  The opportunity may be  desirable, but I would always ask your Plastic Surgeon for his or her opinion.Good luck to you.Frank Rieger M.D. Tampa Plastic Surgeon