Can my drain be removed with 40cc still coming out, 28 days after having it?

Question

Had dog ears and back skin with butt natural lift on June 27th. I have one drain on side of the upper leg, it finally starting to get down to 40cc in 24h. One day can be 30, next 40, or 55 even, but now 3rd day straight having 40c.c in 24h . Can I ask to remove it, or what will out come be will it great a health issues? Thank you.

Nicholas Jones, MD, FACS · Answer

Drains are used to help fluid from accumulating in a previously operated area.  I recommend that you follow up with your plastic surgeon for advice.   Every surgeon has a different protocol.  I typically remove drains in 1-2 weeks after the output is less that 30mL for two consecutive days.  However, there are circumstances in which I may leave the drains in longer.  After 3-4 weeks and there is still a high output, I would be concerned with the development of a seroma.  Also, the drain is a foreign body and could serve as a nidus for infection.  If this is a concern, I usually will just remove it.
I hope this helps.

Good Day,

Nicholas Jones, MD

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

I would keep you area tightly compressed, rest as much as you can and wait longer.  40cc over 24 hours still seems like a lot and you risk collecting fluid under your skin called a seroma.  Best Wishes!!

Frank Agullo, MD · Answer

You should follow your plastic surgeons advice. Each of us has different protocols for drain removal. I remove my patient's drains when they are 40 mL or less in 24 hours.

Brian Coan, MD, FACS · Answer

Congratulations on your recent surgery and thank you for sharing your question about your post operative recovery and results after your surgery.  Final results can take 6-12 months for all the swelling to subside.  At our office here at CARE we actually see all of our surgery patients the very next day after surgery and then again at two weeks and beyond. We enjoy staying closely connected to our patients and enjoy giving the extra attention and service. 
Your concerns are important to discuss directly with your board certified plastic surgeon.  He or she will appreciate the open communication and will want to help you. I hope this is helpful and wish you all the very best.  Sincerely, Brian S. Coan, MD, FACS

Can my drain be removed with 40cc still coming out, 28 days after having it?

Answers (4)

More Butt Lift Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (4)

More Butt Lift Questions

Need to lift my butt crack (Photo)

Advice to heal severe reaction to surgical tape? (Photos)

I had Hydrogel Butt Injection 9 years ago. Now it's starting to sag, can I just have my butt lifted without any fat transfer?

Vampire butt lift for filling?

I have 3 dents on my butt cheeks on the bottom that curves under and connects to the thigh. Will a butt lift work?

What is the name of the no-scalpel butt lift procedure?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS