Tummy tuck drain, small holes

Question

I believe a small part of my drain tube came out of the hole on my left. It's not draining well if at all. I thought maybe I broke plastic during milking but I don't see or hear any holes. It simply fills up the bladder of the drain w air. Upon closer look this morning I noticed there are small holes all around the drain tube at the very top centimeter or so. Shouldn't those be in me? Should I shove it back in. You can tell there were stitches there like the other side but now they're gone but for one.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,It sounds like that drain is on it's way out and no longer effective. You need to be seen in person. At one week, depending on your level of output, it may be fine to just completely remove it. Contact your Plastic Surgeon.All the best

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If your drain cannot remain compressed and continually fills with air then it is no longer providing suction and not providing any real benefit.  Visit with your surgeon for an evaluation.

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

I don't recommend putting drains back in, but your should definitely call your plastic surgeon soon to get the best solution.

William LoVerme, MD · Answer

A drain that is placed after tummy tuck is supposed to suck out any fluid that might accumulate inside. When the drain bulb will not stay compressed there is an air leak. If you can see the holes in the drain then it has pulled out partially. It is best to call your surgeon about this. They will decide whether to remove the drain completely or try to push it back in after cleaning with a special antibiotic solution. It will depend on how long the drain has been in and how much fluid is coming out. This is definitely a question for the surgeon who did your operation.

Kiran Polavarapu, MD · Answer

Sounds like your drain is not functioning and there is no air seal since has basically worked its way out. I would not suggest "shoving it back in" as that can cause infection. Call your plastic surgeon and set up an appointment.

Tummy tuck drain, small holes

Answers (5)