Doctor said I won’t have drains because it's an old method - does this sound right? (photos)

Question

Hello, I am 5’3 and weight 148 pounds. . I lost 60 pounds and I am having a tummy tuck 360, lipo 360 with fat transfer and breast lift/ augmentation all at the same time. My doctor said I won’t have drains because this is old method and I will be sent home the same day. Does this sounds right ? Most places I asked required me to stay 1 night at hospital. The doctor doing my surgery has 15 years of experience and is board certified. I don’t smoke, don’t drink and excercise a lot.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry!  All physicians have little methods they do differently.  We prefer to use drains to control the drainage output.  We would love to sit down with you in person and discuss your concerns and your options. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to assist you in reaching your goals.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for reaching out with your questions. Most surgeons, including myself, recommend using drains during a tummy tuck procedure to minimize fluid collection like seroma fluid and blood. Especially given that you're also planning significant liposuction, drains would likely speed up your recovery by handling the free fluid from the procedure.
As for the hospital stay, these procedures can typically be done on an outpatient basis. However, if you prefer to spend a night or two in a medical facility for peace of mind or comfort, arrangements can usually be made to accommodate this.
I hope this information clarifies your concerns about the need for drains and the potential for an overnight stay with your planned procedures. Wishing you all the best on your journey.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Derek Fletcher, MD · Answer

I do not routinely use drains. Progressive tension sutures between the abdominal skin flap and the abdominal wall dramatically reduces the capacity for fluid to collect within the surgical field after your operation. However, if I observe edematous soft tissue or more bleeding than usual, I will place a single drain.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

I have vast experience on Body lift after weight loss and I haven’t been able to avoid drains specially because my procedures are associated with liposuction which produces a lot of fluid. 
I do quilting progressive tension stitching all over the abdominal flap which reduces significantly the days of drains, but drain will remain 4-5 days. 
I have had zero seromas for the last 10-12 years because of thr quilting stitches plus fee days of drains. 
My patients stay 24 hours at the hospital and at least 7 days under our undivided attention at my 24 hours-nurse care recovery center. 
Be encouraged. 
Dr. Cárdenas.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear mariana.kerr,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

The techniques for a no-drain tummy tuck or lower body lift, like lipotuck, have been around for a while now.  Adoption has been slow but gaining momentum.  Overnight stay is optional if you have good care at home.  There is, however, a redline of 5000cc for liposuction that should not be crossed if you are you are being discharged the same day.

Alain Polynice, MD · Answer

First, let me congratulate you on your weight loss! I looked at your photos, and I think that you are a great candidate for your mommy makeover, which includes a tummy tuck with Lipo 360 and a breast lift with augmentation. The question of whether or not to use drains, depends on the technique used, indeed, there are ways to do this operation and not use drains, but that does not guarantee that you would not have a fluid accumulation or seroma postoperatively, that could still happen. Many plastic surgeons also do these procedures on an outpatient basis so it’s not uncommon for you to go home the same day while other doctors operate at hospitals or surgery centers feel more comfortable having the patient stay overnight. The decision to stay or not to stay overnight also depends on the overall health of each individual patient. It looks like you did your research and consulted with a board-certified surgeon with many years of experience Best of luck.

Shawna R. Kleban, MD · Answer

Many surgeons will place drains during this type of procedure but other surgeons do not. Same with an overnight stay - some surgeons have you stay and others do not. There is no right or wrong answer. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident in your surgeon!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Each surgeon will have her/his own protocol regarding the use of drains.  The purpose of them is to remove excess fluid from the surgical area as the body heals.  They are typically in place 5-14 days.  They aid in preventing seroma formation.  Hospital stays are often based on a combination of the surgeon's protocol as well as the patient's health history.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  It is important that you feel comfortable and confident as you prepare for surgery.

Doctor said I won’t have drains because it's an old method - does this sound right? (photos)

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