Does the color of fluid on drains mean I should worry?

Question

What does it mean when the fluid in drains start with color bloody red then to yellow then to light red n then light orange clear

N. Bill Aydin, MD · Answer

Those are the different phases of abdominal wall fluid that is made. Early on it is more bloody and later on it is more tissue fluid and seroma fluid. This is expected so you do not have to worry.

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Typically the drains will drain bloody drainage initially and then this will change to a light pink drainage and then a yellow straw colored drainage. This is expected and normal, but you can always follow up with your plastic surgeon to be sure.

Jordan P. Farkas, MD · Answer

It sounds like everything is moving in the right direction. Make sure to follow up with your plastic surgeon as scheduled to be sure everything is healing properly. Hope you love your result!

Does the color of fluid on drains mean I should worry?

Answers (3)