Drain tube came apart from suction bulb, will I be okay?

Question

Drain tube came apart from suction bulb, I'm 7 days post op from a mini tummy tuck and Lipo. I don't have much drainage but all blood in the tube went back into my Incision area, I felt it a bit. Will I be okay? I'm actually due to have it taken out 12/17.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,No doubt you have had this taken care of by now but for future reference and the benefit of readers, if you  have a malfunction or your tubing opens up, it is often possible to just reconnect the parts on your own. However, if cannot reconnect it is best to bring this to your Plastic Surgeon's attention as leaving tubing open for a longer period of time would open you up to infection risk. Typically after a week or so, if the drain is causing trouble it will just be removed.All the best

Jimmy S. Firouz, MD, FACS · Answer

This happens from time to time.  Check with your board certified plastic surgeon about what he prefers, but usually you can just re-attach it to the suction bulb!  Your plastic surgeon will be able to advise you on how to do this, or they may have you come in to the office, and they will re-attach it for you.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, if a drain bulb comes off it is best to contact your surgeon as soon as possible for advice.  It is reasonable to try to reattach it, but let your surgeon know the bulb came off since there is a risk of an infection.

Michael A. Epstein, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.This is something that happens every so often.  Usually you can find a way to reconnect the drain tube to the suction bulb and get it working again, but sometimes not.  If not, then the drain is typically just removed and you continue your usual compression with the garment, and nothing bad comes of it.I recommend you discuss the drain issue with your surgeon and see what they say.  They may want to see you before the 17th to get it working again or just take it out early.  Best of luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to speak to your surgeon's office about this.  They should inform you of the steps to take to care for the drainage tubes until you can be seen.  It's important to manage the drainage tubes as instructed in order to minimize risk of infection.

Daniel Krochmal, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, in all likelihood, you will be ok.  It's not uncommon for that to happen.  Continue to follow up with your surgeon and follow their recommendations.  Best of luck!

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, there.If the drain tube has come apart from the bulb, you should be able to reconnect them.If you are not able to do so, please contact your plastic surgeon.Best regards.

Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

This occurs periodically.  In general, it's (obviously) better to maintain suction but particularly for this case, reattaching the bulb (expeditiously) should be okay, and will put the suction back on.  You should contact your PS and discuss this with him or her.  You can perhaps be instructed on how to reattach it, or you may need to be seen in person to be sure.  Either way, your PS can guide you through this.I hope that this helps and good luck,Dr. Alan EnglerMember of #RealSelf100

Drain tube came apart from suction bulb, will I be okay?

Answers (8)

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