Full tummy tuck, BBL, HD Vaser lipo and skin tightening - How many drains would you use?

Question

Hi, how many drains would you typically use & for how long, when doing a Full Tummy Tuck, a BBL, HD Vaser lipo 360` & Skin tightening?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Drains are helpful after certain procedures to collect fluids as the body heals.  Without drains it is possible that the fluid could accumulate and lead to seroma formation.  An exam is needed to know for sure, but I would likely use two drains minimum for the procedures mentioned.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding how many drains would be used for a full tummy tuck, BBL, HD VASER liposuction, and skin tightening. The number of drains needed depends on the extent of the procedures and your surgeon’s technique. While some surgeons perform these surgeries without drains, most experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons prefer to use multiple drains to prevent fluid buildup, reduce swelling, and promote optimal healing.

For this combination of procedures, three drains are typically used. One drain is usually placed near the belly button to help suction the linea alba, the vertical midline between the sternum and the belly button, which enhances muscle definition, particularly for high-definition abdominal contouring. The other two drains are placed in the pubic region to help remove fluid from the tummy tuck area, preventing complications like seromas and ensuring a smoother recovery.

The length of time the drains remain in place depends on the amount of liposuction and skin removal performed. Typically, the drain used for VASER HD liposuction is removed within 5 to 7 days, while the drains used for the tummy tuck generally need to stay in for 10 to 14 days, sometimes longer if significant amounts of skin and fat were removed. The more extensive the procedure, the longer the drains may need to stay to allow for proper healing and fluid drainage.

I hope this helps clarify what to expect in terms of drains after a full tummy tuck, BBL, HD VASER liposuction, and skin tightening. Be sure to follow your plastic surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to ensure the best possible outcome. Best of luck with your surgery!

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, MBA, FACS, FICS

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! The amount of drains placed depends on how much fluid you have during surgery. They are removed after surgery once they reach a certain daily output. We would love to meet with you in person to discuss your surgical options. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon like myself to help you reach your goals and create a surgical plan.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Inventive11682,

this will depend on the surgeon's preferences. Some won't use drains, others will use drains for tummy tuck procedure. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

I do not use drains with a tummy tuck unless substantial liposuction is performed too, because progressive tension sutures are used for the tummy tuck. The use of the drains are only to remove fluid from the liposuction. They always come out in 5 to 6 days.

Full tummy tuck, BBL, HD Vaser lipo and skin tightening - How many drains would you use?

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Full tummy tuck, BBL, HD Vaser lipo and skin tightening - How many drains would you use?

Answers (7)

Answer: Drains

Answer: Drains

Answer: Drains

Answer: Drains

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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.