I Have Had a Drain in for 18 Days Post Op. I Am Still Draining 40ml of Dark Red Blood. I Am Not Obese. Is This Normal?

Question

John J. Corey, MD · Answer

My guess is that you probably have a bit of old blood under your tummy skin and it is taking time just to dissolve and work it's way out, which is good! Better out than in! And depending on the amount, you may continue to drain for a bit longer...I know it can be a real hassle but it is worth it to leave it in as long as you need!

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Drains are typically removed when there is less than 30cc in the drain for 24 hours.  In most cases, the first drain comes out by day 7 and the second drain by day 14.  Note that the drainage may increase after the first couple of days and the patient moves about more.  Each Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is different.  Please communicate with your Plastic Surgeon your questions. Together you will make a plan.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	Your plastic surgeon will be your  best resource when it comes to this issue;  he/she is able to evaluate the entire clinical picture,  a small part of which is the drain output. In the context of the entire clinical picture, the drain output may or may not be “normal”.

	 In other words, continue to follow closely with your plastic surgeon.  Other sources of advice/reassurance cannot be specific enough.

	 Best wishes.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,

	Unfortunately, draining blood or bloody fluid is not normal except in the first day or two.  Dark color indicates blood that has been 'sitting around' under your skin for many days. You should keep in contact with your doctor for frequent follow ups until it has resolved.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

40 ml of dark red blood in the drain at 18 days after tummy tuck may be a little hematoma that has liquefied and has finally drained.  The volume by itself is not concerning, but if the drainage picks up or continues see your plastic surgeon for an evaluation.  Usually at 3 weeks, drains are ready to come out.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

I Have Had a Drain in for 18 Days Post Op. I Am Still Draining 40ml of Dark Red Blood. I Am Not Obese. Is This Normal?

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Answer: Draining blood after TT

Answer: Draining blood after TT

Answer: 40 ml of Dark Red Blood in Drain at 18 Days after Tummy Tuck

Answer: 40 ml of Dark Red Blood in Drain at 18 Days after Tummy Tuck

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I Have Had a Drain in for 18 Days Post Op. I Am Still Draining 40ml of Dark Red Blood. I Am Not Obese. Is This Normal?

Answers (10)

Answer: Draining blood after TT

Answer: Draining blood after TT

Answer: 40 ml of Dark Red Blood in Drain at 18 Days after Tummy Tuck

Answer: 40 ml of Dark Red Blood in Drain at 18 Days after Tummy Tuck

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.