How long am I supposed to drain after liposuction? (photos)

You appear to have skin necrosis and should follow up with your doctor immediately. I am uncertain as to what type of liposuction you had but usually an energy based treatment such as smartlipo would cause a burn with skin necrosis such as this.

This is NOT normal, its a really concerning complication. Visit your Plastic Surgeon ASAP for proper diagnosis and treatment.

The description of drainage and photo is concerning. Usually, drainage will stop by the 3rd post operative day. Please advise your surgeon of your concerns as soon as possible.Best Regards,Dr. Stutman

Based on the picture posted you have a skin necrosis, either partial skin loss or superficial skin loss. You need to see your surgeon ASAP for proper diagnosis and treatment. It looks to me you were a candidate for tummy tuck not liposuction unless this was done as staged procedure

There are times when drainage can start a few days after surgery.Your pictures show there is something abnormal going on. You're developing some type of skin necrosis.This could be from the areas being over-treated, excessive use of laser or VASER, or cigarette smoking after surgery.Regardless, you need to contact your plastic surgeon immediately and have them manage your situation.Even if things look bad at this point, most patients heal up fine with time.Feel free to continue posting on RealSelf, but, more so, please follow up with your plastic surgeon.Best of luck,Mats Hagstrom, M.D.

Thanks for your question. Most patients stop draining from lipo sites in 48-72 hrs.. After looking at your photo, I would advise you to contact your PS immediately. Best of luck.