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

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.

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.

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.

J. Brad Turner, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear that the drain isn't working.If the bulb fills with air then the closed suction system certainly has a leak.  The visibility of holes means that it has dislodged.  Due to the presence of some bacteria at the skin hole it is best not to "shove it back in".  It is best to contact your surgeons office for futher recommendations.  In the meantime keep the area clean and change the bandages as often as needed as fluid will continue to passively drain out.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

This is a question for your surgeon. Please contact his or her office to let them know what is going on. Best wishes, Dean Vistnes.

Tummy tuck drain, small holes

Answers (7)

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