For many years drains were common practice in abdominoplasty. Many surgeons clearly continue in their use.I stopped using drains for abdominoplasty 4 years ago by using internal suturing. Seroma rate dropped from about 40% to less than 1%. Infections went from 2% to 0.to answer more directly, drains are two way streets. the sooner they can be removed the better.good luck.
Teebella,That is a weighted question!!! There is no right answer. It is both patient and surgeon dependant. Generally as a rule, I place one drain in all of my abdominoplasties and remove them when the drainage is less than 50cc's in a 24 hour period. That being said, usually it is between 5-7 days with a few going as long as 10-14 days (generally on larger patients with liposcution performed on their sides and back). Your surgeon will decide when you are ready to have your drains removed...no one else.Best of luck,Dr Taranow, NYC Plastic Surgery
