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

Question

I had lipo done on my upper and lower abs 8 days ago. I did not drain for the 2,3, and 4th day. Then all of the sudden, I started pouring out sticky pink fluid out of the right side. I have had intense pain the entire time and can barely walk. I am still draining a ton (soaking through towels) Is this normal? I also have patches of skin that don't look right, they are peeling. See pics.. thank you

Sam M. Sukkar, MD · Answer

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.

Luis E. Redondo, MD · Answer

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

Ross Stutman, MD · Answer

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

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

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

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

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.

Richard Wilson, MD (retired) · Answer

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.

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

Answers (6)

More Tumescent Liposuction Questions

5 days post op Tumesecent Lipo, I have keloid prone skin. What's the best way to care for these incisions to minimize scarring?

Skinny with hips and a nice butt, but I hate my stomach. Can Tumescent Liposuction give me a hourglass shape? (photos)

Are patients awake for Tumescent Liposuction, or is there the option of having local or general anesthesia?

Numbness on flanks and tummy after liposuction? When will it go away?

How much tumescent fluid should be injected for liposuction of the abdomen?

Can you wear a compression garment during exercise?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS