Different colored drains after Tummy Tuck, is this normal?

Question

So I had an abdominoplasty, full back lipo-ed and a breast lift and reduction. The breast drains were removed after a couple of days, and was asked to measure and check my abdominal ones as time went on. As of right now (4 days post op) Left side is Bright red and somewhat watery at 60cc. Right is thick and rich in color, very dark and has chunks of blood coming out at 80cc. Is this normal? There is no pain in either side, however my back side on the right is more bruised than the other.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Great question. Congratulations on your procedure. It is normal to have a color difference in your drainage post op. However, I will suggest verifying everything is under control by following up with your surgeon. Keep following your surgeon's post op instructions.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, but without an exam it is hard to advise.  Please call your surgeon's office to discuss.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Differences in the appearance of drainage is common.  However you should mention it to your surgeon as he/she is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery.

Different colored drains after Tummy Tuck, is this normal?

Answers (3)