Taking my surgical drain out myself? Normal or not? Seeking second opinion. (photos)

Question

had a MMO 2 wks ago in Miami I'm from Colorado I was sent home with one drain and my doctor said I could take it out myself when I drain less than 25cc I feel like I have been draining less I haven't been on top of measuring my drains everyday but it has been a little below the 25cc line just want to know if its dangerous to keep the drain in for more than 2 weeks and if its normal to be sent home and be told to take drain out myself or should I go to the emergency room so they can pull it out?

James H. Rogers, MD · Answer

Different surgeons have different protocols for removing drains. Most typically remove them when the drainage becomes less than 30cc per day. In my opinion, it is unwise to have patients remove their own drains, as it can be painful and complications can occur.One of the drawbacks to having surgery performed away from home is lack of postoperative care and if complications occur, difficulty in addressing them. In my practice, we arrange for out of town patients to follow up with plastic surgeons in their area if necessary. In your case, I would recommend referral to a local surgeon rather than going to an emergency room.

Richard Nadal, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
I do not recommend that patients remove their own drains for several reasons. There is an element of discomfort associated with drain removal. Some patients will not tolerate it. Drains have been known to break off. They sometimes have to be measured after removal to ensure that no foreign body is left behind. On occasion, a piece of suture holding the drain in place may inadvertently be left behind. Timing of drain removal is also a potential issue since premature removal may lead to the development of a seroma.
It is best to have a physician remove the drain.
Best wishes...

Alex Campbell, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I highly recommend you to seek a plastic surgeon in your area to help you take out the drains. Best is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

We do not recommend that you remove your own drain. See if you can see a local plastic surgeon or your PCP to remove your drain. Good luck.

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

Drains are very common with the tummy tuck portion of the mommy makeover.   Removing your own drain, especially without direction is not common.  You should discuss this with your surgeon.  I highly recommend a facetime session with your surgeon to discuss your options, including walking you through the drain removal if you choose that route.

Thomas Fiala, MD, FACS, FRCSC · Answer

It is our practice to have our tummy tuck & mommy makeover patients come in to the office for drain removal with our nurses.  We do not recommend that you do it yourself at home.

Anthony A. Admire, MD, FACS · Answer

I personally don't recommend my patients remove any drains themselves. I do stitch them in, but perhaps your physician did not and it would be easy for you to remove your own drain. I would clarify with your surgeon if the drain is stitched in place. If you can't physically see your surgeon, then I do recommend going to a health professional at the very least. My practice is to have a colleague that I know and trust in what ever state the patient returns to see the patient and make sure the drain is safe to remove.

Bryan Armijo, MD · Answer

I would advise against having you remove your drain yourself. Call around to local plastic surgeons or even to primary care providers in your area to see if they would be comfortable removing your drain. If they are hesitant, you may even be able to get your current plastic surgeon to contact them on your behalf. A visit to the ER for drain removal would be quite expensive, so I would also avoid that if possible. If you have concerns about the instructions you received, give your surgeon’s office a call for clarification or further instructions. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Caring3613,
drains are used to prevent seroma formation. They are usually removed once the drainage reduces. Most plastic surgeons don't recommend their patients to remove drains by themselves. It is best that you contact your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Caring3613You should not attempt to remove your dreams yourself! That is irresponsible advice.I recommend that you seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area for continued postop care. You most likely will have to further pay out-of-pocket for this service, but it is important and unfortunately,  one of the pitfalls of traveling elsewhere for your surgery. Best of luck.

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