White substance in drain 2 weeks after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

It's two weeks to the day since I had my surgery. I have noticed there are white stringy clots like things in my drain tube. I've contacted my nurse (doctor is out of town for the week) and she says it's normal.... I'm just worried it's and infection and pus is draining out.

Bryan Armijo, MD · Answer

This drainage is normal, but you can always schedule an in-person examination with your surgeon to ease your mind. If you begin to feel ill, notice discoloration or experience new symptoms then this would be a case in which you should schedule an examination with the surgeon’s office immediately.

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

HI Domino,  The drainage does not look like pus. It could be some fatty tissue, if your doctor liposuctioned the area or just some clot that has dissolved a bit. It is good that it is coming out.If you wound gets red or if you develop a fever, then  you should contact y our PS's office. Best,Dr. Christine Rodgers

N. Bill Aydin, MD · Answer

Hi, Thank you for your post. What you are seeing in the drains is normal. Stripping the drains will definitely help to pull those clots out of the tubing. If you are unsure about how to do this set up an appointment with your plastic surgeon so that they can show you how.

Jane M. Rowley, MD · Answer

Your drain output looks normal.  The fibrin and plasma cells form that white, stringy material, nothing to worry about.  Good luck, Jane

Vinod V. Pathy, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question.  This drainage looks quite normal.  The majority is thin, clear, yellow fluid.  The small amount of particulate material you see is very common and is usually the result of the breakdown of proteins in the clear yellow fluid (serous fluid) or small pieces of fatty tissue.  As long as you are not febrile and are feeling well, it's likely not worth your worry.  Should things change, please contact your surgeon.  Best of luck to you!

Humberto Palladino, MD, FACS · Answer

Your drain looks completely normal. Those clots can be cleaned form the tube by stripping the tube. Have someone at your surgeons office show you how to do it. Best to you!

Richard J. Brown, MD · Answer

Totally normal. That is just wound healing debris that is sitting under the flap. Stripping the drains will help pull those clots out of the tube. It is not infection, it is totally normal. The nurse is correct.

White substance in drain 2 weeks after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Answers (7)

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