How Long is Too Long to Have a Drain?

Thank you for your question.  Drains are typically removed when there is less than 30cc in the drain for 24 hours.  In most cases, the first drain comes out by day 7 and the second drain by day 14.  Note that the drainage may increase after the first couple of days and the patient moves about more.  Each Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is different.  Please communicate with your Plastic Surgeon your concerns.  It sounds like you are working together, and it should work out.

Thank you for your question.  Drains left in after a tummy tuck are removed according to how much drainage is coming out.  This generally lasts 7-10 days.  It may take longer in larger cases.  It sounds like your surgeon is on top of the situation and I would continue to follow up with him. 

Sometimes you reach a point where you just need to remove it and see if a seroma develops.  This would then require serial aspirations until it's resoved.  If it doesn't resolve, another operation may be necessary to remove the seroma cavity that may have formed. 

Best Wishes,

Dr. Brian Joseph

Thank you for the question.

It sounds like your  plastic surgeon is following you closely.  I would suggest that you continue to follow his advice regarding drain removal. Unless there is an infection associated with the drain (unusual),  there will be minimal downside to keeping the drain in place until its output is lower.

Best wishes.