How much fluid is normal to retain after drain removal?

What you are experiencing is not uncommon. In my practice, I will
aspirate them until I can no longer get any fluid indicating that the
collection is so small that it is inconsequential. I find that this
occurs around 6 weeks on average.

Hello. Having a seroma after the drains are removed is common, unfortunately. It sounds like it is improving and less and less is accumulating. It is hard to get every drop out when aspirating the fluid because the fluid can be in separate "little lakes" on the inside-- hope that makes sense! It should continue to get better and better. You should follow the advice of your plastic surgeon-- she knows you and your case the best.Good luck!

As long as the trend is to have less fluid with each aspiration, you are on the right track.  Hang in there and follow all instructions from your surgeon.  We have started to offer a no-drain tummy tuck and we have been happy with minimal seromas since instituting it.  Best wishes. 

It is not unusual to have some remaining fluid after a tummy tuck, even if one has had drains placed during the surgery.  60 cc is not a lot of fluid and, if the second aspiration was down to 30 cc, this is a good sign that the seroma will probably resolve over time.  You may still need to have the seroma drained once or twice more, but don't worry, this situation should subside in the next few weeks.  Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions. Best wishes, Dr. Lepore.