Why do I feel like the drainage tube is above my tummy tuck incision?

Question

My tube feels right above my incision is this normal? It is very uncomfortable it feels like it's stretching the incision

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

This is the proper placement of the drainsThe pain is most likely from the surgery itselfit'll get better in no time...best of luckdr schwartz

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Your drain indeed extends above the incision deep to the abdominal flap. While it is present it can generate traction they can cause unpleasant pulling sensations.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I would speak with your operative surgeon about the tubes and where they were placed during surgery.  Typically drains are placed along operative areas that had a lot of dissection performed, or in dependent areas where fluid could accumulate.  Typically for a tummy tuck this would be up the middle of your stomach and along the horizontal incision line.  It sounds like you tube is in a normal position, but again check with your surgeon.

Neal Handel, MD · Answer

You may feel like the drainage tube is above the incision
because it propbably is above the incision. Generally, the area above the incision
is where the drainage tube is placed to remove excess blood or fluid that may accumulate
beneath the flap and interfere with healing. Sounds like your drain tube is in the
correct position.

Daniel M. Calloway, MD · Answer

Closed suction drains are soft, thin tubular devices placed in the tissues to remove normal tissue fluid that might try to accumulate in the absense of drains.  The drains are placed under suction using a collapsible bulb (looks like a grenade) which produces a low vacuum suction and collects fluid for measurement.  The drain is often placed in a dependent position to allow gravity to bring the fluid to the drain.  The exit point for the drain varies between surgeons but is usually sutured to the skin to avoid accidental removal.The sensation associated with the drains are usually minimal, but if tension or flexion occurs on the drain, then a poking or pulling sensation may occur.  The exit site is usually the point where irritation can occur, esp where it is sutured to the skin.Although the drains are sometimes difficult to manage, their benefits usually far outweight the hassles. Drains help to avoid seromas (accumulation of tissue fluid) that might result in drainage through the wound, infection of the wound and/or delayed healing.If you remain concerned, discuss with your Plastic Surgeon!

Kiran Polavarapu, MD · Answer

Your drain is probably in the correct position. It is unlikely that it is stretching the incision, but the "feeling" and sensation cause by this tube can be uncomfortable. Once it is removed, you will find some relief, but it needs to serve an important purpose at this time. Since fluid follows gravity, it is in the right position to recover any fluid that would like to accumulate.  Be patient. If it still concerns you, please follow-up with your plastic surgeon and discuss your concerns and thoughts.

Sheldon Lincenberg, MD · Answer

This is a good question! The tummy tuck incision is often placed at the lowest area on your abdomen so that the scar will be covered by your clothing. The drain (or drains) are positioned by your surgeon so that they work well and this may be higher than the healing incision. Don't worry about this.

Douglas J. Raskin, MD (retired) · Answer

Greetings,The surgical incision can create many sensations including a sense of stretching.  It is also possible that you can feel the presence of an underlying drain tube beneath the lowermost part of your tummy tuck.If the drain is causing your sensation of "stretching", you will be relieved when your surgeon finally removes this tube.Best Regards,

Why do I feel like the drainage tube is above my tummy tuck incision?

Answers (8)

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